Care Sector Christmas Lunch

Ruth French

Founder, French & Co Care Consulting and Non-Executive Director of Elizabeth Finn Homes and The Outstanding Society CIC

Ruth French is an award-winning social care leader, consultant and non-executive director with more than 25 years’ experience spanning adult social care, public policy and organisational transformation. She is the founder of French & Co Care Consulting and previously led Stow Healthcare Group, where she oversaw the successful acquisition and turnaround of eight care homes across East Anglia. Under her leadership, the organisation achieved multiple sector awards and four homes secured the Care Quality Commission’s highest Outstanding rating.

A recognised expert in quality improvement, regulatory compliance, governance and workforce development, Ruth supports care providers to strengthen operational performance, improve resident outcomes and achieve sustainable growth. She is a respected voice within the social care sector, regularly contributing to industry publications, webinars, conferences and media discussions on issues including quality, innovation, recruitment and regulation.

Alongside her consultancy work, Ruth serves as a Non-Executive Director of Elizabeth Finn Homes and The Outstanding Society CIC, providing strategic oversight, constructive challenge and sector leadership. She contributes to national initiatives aimed at improving care quality and professional development across adult social care.

Prior to entering the care sector, Ruth spent almost a decade in the UK Civil Service. She led policy and operational programmes across business, trade, energy and climate portfolios, including roles within the Cabinet Office and Business Department. Her career combines public service values, commercial acumen and a longstanding commitment to improving outcomes for people and communities.

I’m in it because I believe that every person deserves care that enhances their life and gives them a reason to get up each morning. Throughout my career in social care, I have seen the extraordinary difference that compassionate, well-led services can make to individuals, families and communities. From turning around struggling care homes and achieving Outstanding ratings to supporting providers across the sector, I have been driven by a passion for helping people receive the very best care. As a Championing Social Care Ambassador, I want to share the positive stories, challenge outdated perceptions, and encourage more people to see social care as the rewarding, skilled and life-changing profession that it is.

Tom Berrisford

Divisional Director Elderly Care team, Compass Associates

Tom is the Divisional Director of our Elderly Care team at Compass Associates, a premium recruitment brand at CRS, purely dedicated to supporting mid to senior level appointments across the independent health, social care and children’s services & education sector. Roughly, the group facilitate over 1000 placements per year with Tom and his team boasting extensive industry knowledge and invaluable networks across the UK, allowing for a deep insight into the key movers and shakers in the sector.

I am in because social care has given me the opportunity to grow a career and meet incredible people along the way. By becoming an ambassador of CSC, I feel I have a platform to give back to the community and make positive impacts where possible.

Umbreen David

Founder and Managing Director, Hoama Group, operating Iden Manor Nursing Home

Umbreen David is the Founder and Managing Director of Hoama Group, operating Iden Manor Nursing Home in Kent. With over 30 years in health and social care, she brings the perspective of a single-site operator scaling up, currently developing a purpose-built specialist care home that is planned to open in 2028.

She sits on the board of the Kent Integrated Care Alliance (KICA), and is an award-winning entrepreneur, recognised as a Silver Stevie winner for Best Female Entrepreneur at the 2025 Stevie Awards for Women in Business. She raises her voice for social care through sector engagement, serves on sector judging panels and published articles.

Umbreen has built her career on striving for excellence, for residents and staff alike.

Her guiding principle is simple: I lift as I climb.

To find out more: https://umbreendavid.com & https://idenmanor.co.uk

Why I joined

I’m in because good care can be transformational. I am passionate about creating the right environments, sharing good practice, and helping people feel respected, supported and able to thrive.

I believe everyone in social care deserves to be seen, valued and celebrated.

Phil Haynes

Co-founder, The Progressive Collective

Phil Haynes is Co-Founder of The Progression Collaborative, a leadership and culture organisation working across health and social care. He works strategically and operationally with organisations on leadership development, facilitation and the harder conversations around succession, culture and team performance. Phil is facilitative by nature, happiest in a room helping a group move from talking to doing. He has previously supported the Care Sector Ball as a committee member and compere for the event.

I’m in because…I spend my working life close to the people trying to make care better at scale – the leaders carrying real weight with constant pressure and high expectations, often without recognition, and I want to help the rest of the world see what I see.

Melissa Magee

Managing Director, Carless + Adams

Independently owned, Carless + Adams provides professional advice and services in architecture with an exclusive focus on the design of integrated retirement communities, supported living and care accommodation.

Melissa Magee took ownership of the business in 2020 from an established partnership that spanned over 70 years. Melissa joined the business in 2007 and worked full time whilst also studying for her RIBA Part 2 and Part 3, achieving Chartered Architect status.

Melissa is a vastly experienced Architect who for over 20 years has specialised in the design of care accommodation for the elderly. Melissa’s expertise covers all types of accommodation from inception to completion. Her knowledge of the care sector enables her to give in depth advice and add value at each stage of a project to ensure the best possible outcome.

I am in because… care is my passion and I believe that we, as an industry, can really drive change together for betterment and making care a choice move

Rickie Tank

Rickie Tank is an experienced programme and project leader with over 20 years’ experience delivering large-scale transformation across financial. She moved into and health and social care a decade ago, co-founding and leading an award-winning domiciliary care business, giving her a deep understanding of the sector, the challenges it faces, and what it takes to deliver high-quality care in today’s world.

Now working on a fractional basis, Rickie supports organisations & families problem-solving and bringing clarity to complex challenges across the sector. She is particularly known for her ability to connect people, build relationships and identify practical solutions. She also acts as a mentor to others both within and outside the sector, from strategic partnerships and alliances through to one to one support.

Alongside her professional work, Rickie is actively involved in community-led initiatives, including supporting families through Lewis Leap, a charity focused on early intervention following sudden and traumatic bereavement. As a mum to a daughter with complex additional needs, she brings lived experience and a strong personal commitment to improving how care is delivered and understood.

Rickie is proud to be an Ambassador for Championing Social Care, helping to shine a positive light on the sector.

She’s in because care is not just a service it’s about dignity, community enabling people and their families to thrive.

Rishi Jawaheer

CEO, CareVisionAI

Rishi Jawaheer is the CEO of CareVisionAI, an all-in-one digital care management system designed by care providers for care providers. Growing up in his family’s dementia care home, he gained insights into the realities of frontline care. For the past 20 years, he has served as Director of The Jawa Group, an established group of care homes.

After using multiple care management systems that failed to meet staff needs, Rishi developed CareVision from real operational experience. CareVisionAI bridges the gap between technology and care, helping providers reduce admin, stay compliant, and spend more meaningful time with those they support.

Sabrina Meetaroo

Divisional Director | Head of Legal, Risk & Claims Advocacy, Howden Health & Care

Sabrina is a highly experienced solicitor with over 18 years’ experience specialising in medical malpractice and healthcare litigation. She is Divisional Director and Head of Legal, Risk & Claims Advocacy at Howden Health & Care.

Sabrina has a strong personal and professional connection to the social care sector, including experience as a provider, which gives her a grounded understanding of the operational, regulatory and human challenges faced by care organisations. She combines this real-world insight with deep legal expertise to support providers, insurers and investors in navigating complex risk and achieving practical, defensible outcomes.

She leads the Risk & Claims Advocacy function at Howden, advising on complex claims, liability issues and coverage disputes, and works closely with organisations across the health and social care landscape.

Sabrina is an active advocate for the sector and regularly contributes to podcasts, panels and industry discussions, using her platform to raise the profile of social care, share insight on claims trends and highlight the challenges and opportunities facing providers today.

“I’m in because I’ve seen first-hand, both professionally and as a provider, the reality of social care — the complexity, the responsibility and the unwavering commitment it demands. It is a sector that plays a vital role in our society, yet is too often overlooked. I’m passionate about using my experience and platform to champion social care, to support and advocate for the incredible workforce at its heart, and to help raise the profile of a sector that delivers life-changing impact every single day.”

Sara Livadeas

Founder, Social Care Works Ltd

Sara is a social care expert who has held executive roles in a large local authority and several national charities. She has commissioned and delivered residential and nursing care, supported living, extra care housing, domiciliary care, specialist and community services, across large populations and multiple sites.

Sara is an experienced CEO and NED. She is known as an advocate for people who live and work in care.

She works freelance as a thinking partner to leaders at moments of change, working with them on strategy, communication and personal positioning.

William Walter

Founder and Managing Director, Bridgehead Communications

William is the founder and Managing Director of Bridgehead Communications, a strategic communications consultancy specialising in the health and social care sector. Through Bridgehead Social Care, he works with care providers, technology companies and sector organisations to strengthen reputation, support policy engagement, and raise the profile of adult social care.

He is also a columnist for Care Home Professional and regularly interviews senior policymakers and sector leaders shaping the future of social care. Through his work, William promotes innovation, thought leadership and a stronger public understanding of the vital role the care sector plays within the wider health and care system.

“I am in because…” the social care sector is at a crucial crossroads. Public perceptions of the sector often remain out of sync with the reality of the extraordinary work taking place every day in care services across the country. The NHS’s shift towards neighbourhood and community-based healthcare presents an important opportunity for the sector to grow, upskill and play a more central role in supporting people with complex needs. At the same time, a viable long-term funding settlement for social care remains elusive. Championing Social Care has a vital role to play in improving understanding of the sector and ensuring it receives the recognition it deserves.

Mark Westgarth

Managing Director – Health & Care, Howden

Mark is an experienced insurance and risk specialist with 40 years in the industry. Mark leads Howden’s Health & Care division who provide day‑to‑day guidance on insurance placement, risk management and claims advocacy for providers across the entire health, medical & social care spectrum. Mark has held senior leadership roles throughout his career, giving him a rounded, practical understanding of the pressures and complexities facing care organisations”.

“I am in because this sector has shaped so much of my career and purpose, and I want to use my platform to celebrate the people whose work truly changes lives

Michaela Deasy

Marketing & Business Development Manager

Michaela has a distinctly in-depth knowledge of the social care and healthcare landscape along with a proven track record of engaging both operators and investors in the sector. With a sophisticated understanding of communication strategies and relationship development, she brings a unique blend of strategic insight and practical execution to her role with Connell Consulting and also the sector.

Michaela graduated from the University of Central Queensland and the University of Southern Queensland with a BA in Marketing, Public Relations, and Business Communications and a Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Communications and Art History.

I’m in because I believe the future of care in the UK depends on our collective willingness to champion quality, dignity and innovation at every level. I am deeply concerned about the pressures facing the sector – from low incomes and rising costs to the growing complexity of care needs. I want to play an active role in shaping a more sustainable, equitable and person‑centred system.

Kam Gill

Managing Director, Walfinch

Kam Gill, a Managing Director and care provider, began her career in a different field, graduating with a BSc in Dental Technology and working in both dental laboratories and retail. She eventually found her calling in the care sector, progressing from a recruitment role to senior leadership.

Today, Kam leads Walfinch Oxfordshire, a home care provider committed to helping people thrive in their own homes. She has co-chaired Registered Manager network meetings, supporting care leaders on topics ranging from compliance to wellbeing. Her passion for community connection led her to establish several “Thrive Clubs,” free community groups offering physical and mental stimulation to both care recipients and unpaid carers, including unique initiatives like a carer Pilates club.

Under Kam’s leadership, Walfinch has launched various community events to educate and empower individuals to make informed choices about their future. Her approach is holistic, inclusive, and centred on enabling individuals to live with dignity, choice, and purpose.

Why I joined:

“I’m in because… I believe thriving, not just surviving, should be at the heart of every care journey

Amrit Dhaliwal

CEO & Founder, Walfinch

Dan Bridges

Regional Director, Avery Healthcare

Dan is a Regional Director at Avery Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care home pro-viders. He has over 17 years’ experience in social care, having progressed through the sector from starting as a night care assistant to becoming one of the youngest regis-tered managers at just 23, when he took on his first care home management role.

Dan leads his teams with passion, drive, and an unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding care. Overseeing and managing a portfolio of homes.

Deeply passionate about community engagement and bridging the gap between com-munity and social care, Dan has built a career focused on improving outcomes for resi-dents, empowering staff, and strengthening services. He has extensive experience in commissioning and building communities where residents and staff thrive.

Dan’s leadership has been widely recognised. He has won multiple awards, including “Outstanding Contribution to Social Care” and “Effective Leadership Through COVID-19,” and was a finalist for Manager of the Year at the National Care Awards.

Leading from the front, Dan sets high expectations and inspires his teams by example, with a clear focus on excellence, compassion, and quality in care delivery.

A few words from Dan:

I am in because …… Social care is an amazing place to work and one of the most rewarding careers you can choose. Our sector is full of unsung heroes who change lives every day, often without recognition. I am passionate about celebrating these individuals and shining a light on the incredible work we do. I want to inspire the younger generation to see social care as an exciting and fulfilling career, with endless opportunities to grow, develop, and make a real difference.

Amy Dobson

Social Media Manager, Hallmark Luxury Care Homes

Tom Owen

Co-founder & Trustee, My Home Life

Tom Owen has been working in social care for 38 years as a campaigner, researcher and practitioner. He began his career working in care homes, and as a community worker before taking a research position at Oxford University and then, becoming Policy Research Manager at Help the Aged (Now Age UK) leading on issues around dying, social isolation, depression and the lived experience of older people.

Tom Owen is co-founder and trustee of My Home Life, an international programme (and social movement) promoting quality of life in care homes and other care settings. Tom also acts as Director of ‘My Home Life England’, based at City St George’s, University of London

Tom has presented papers at a range of UK and international conferences and has published a number of papers in academic and trade journals.

About Person Centred Software

Person Centred Software provides innovative digital solutions for the social care sector, helping care providers improve quality, efficiency, and compliance. Their integrated suite includes care planning, eMAR, wellbeing and activities tools, and workforce management systems—empowering teams to deliver truly person‑centred care.

Learn more: www.personcentredsoftware.com

About Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard is an international law firm with specialist expertise in the health and social care sectors. They provide legal and strategic support to care providers, helping them navigate regulation, deliver sustainable services, and achieve their long‑term goals.

Learn more: www.addleshawgoddard.com

TrustedCare is a leading referral platform for social care services, offering free advice and listings for care homes, home care, and live‑in care. Their specialist advisers help individuals and families navigate care options with confidence, ensuring they find the support that meets their needs.

Learn more: www.trustedcare.co.uk

About Carehome.co.uk

Carehome.co.uk is the UK’s leading care home directory and review website, helping people find the right care through detailed listings, ratings, and reviews. With thousands of verified reviews from residents and families, it supports informed decision‑making and connects care seekers with trusted providers.
Learn more: www.carehome.co.uk

About Brakes (a Sysco company)

Brakes is the UK’s leading foodservice supplier, providing fresh, chilled, frozen, and ambient products to care homes, hospitals, and hospitality businesses. Backed by Sysco, they combine industry expertise with a wide range of quality products and tailored support to help providers deliver nutritious, high‑quality meals.

Learn more: www.brake.co.uk

About Neuven

Neuven is a neutral vendor specialising in workforce management for the health, social care, and housing sectors. They provide transparent, impartial solutions that help organisations reduce costs, improve compliance, and streamline staffing processes. Through innovative technology and industry expertise, Neuven supports providers in delivering high‑quality care with efficient, well‑managed staffing.

Learn more: www.neuven.co.uk

About Hallmark Luxury Care Homes

Hallmark Care Homes is a family‑run provider of luxury residential, nursing, and dementia care across England and Wales. With a focus on dignity, individuality, and relationship‑centred care, they create welcoming environments where residents can live fulfilling lives. Their award‑winning homes combine high‑quality care with exceptional facilities and a strong commitment to enhancing wellbeing.

Learn more: www.hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk

About Leaders in Care

Leaders in Care is a specialist UK recruitment firm focused on connecting healthcare and social care organisations with top-tier professionals, including nursing leaders, social workers, therapists, and executive-level roles. Founded in Manchester in 2017, they deliver one-to-one tailored recruitment services backed by consultants collectively holding over 75 years of experience. Emphasising honesty, integrity, and long-term relationships, they support organisations in securing high-quality leaders who drive excellence in care delivery.

Learn more: www.leadersincare.co.uk

About Calvary Care

Calvary Care provides high‑quality home care and support services, helping people live independently and with dignity in their own homes. Their dedicated team offers personalised care tailored to individual needs, from companionship and daily living assistance to specialist support. Committed to compassion, professionalism, and respect, Calvary Care works to enhance quality of life for every client they serve.

Learn more: www.calvarycare.co.uk

About Sona

Sona is a workforce management platform designed for frontline care organisations. Their all‑in‑one, mobile‑first system combines scheduling, HR, payroll, and AI‑powered insights to help providers fill shifts faster, reduce agency costs, and improve staff engagement. Trusted by care teams across the UK, Sona supports better workforce planning, boosts staff retention, and helps deliver higher quality care.

Learn more: www.getsona.com

About CareTech Foundation

CareTech Foundation is an independent grant‑making charity established in 2017 to champion the social care sector, support care workers, and improve the lives of people living in care. They fund initiatives that support individuals with physical and learning disabilities, promote skills development within the care workforce, and strengthen local communities. Through partnership grants, community funding, and hardship support, the Foundation is committed to making a lasting difference across the UK and beyond.

Learn more: www.caretechfoundation.org.uk

About Chalcot Care

Chalcot Care is a nationwide healthcare recruitment agency with over 15 years’ experience, specialising in supplying skilled medical and care professionals—including nurses, doctors, allied health professionals, and healthcare assistants—to NHS and private care providers. Operating 24/7, they deliver fast, reliable staffing solutions while fostering a supportive environment for their workforce. Guided by their values of Care, Competence, Commitment, and Community, they are dedicated to raising care standards across the sector.

Learn more: www.chalcotcare.co.uk

About Autumna

Autumna is the UK’s largest independent directory for later-life care, helping families find the right support with confidence. Featuring over 26,000 listings of care homes, home care agencies, live‑in care, and retirement living options, Autumna provides clear, impartial information with no referral fees.
Their free Care Advice Line offers expert guidance for self‑funding families, ensuring they can make informed decisions about care and living arrangements.

Learn more: www.autumna.co.uk

About Hallmark Foundation

The Hallmark Foundation is an independent charitable trust dedicated to creating a Britain where everyone can age well. They fund research, innovation, and partnerships that strengthen the care workforce, improve quality of care, and support sustainable ageing. Working with organisations such as the Care Workers’ Charity and Championing Social Care, they help drive positive change across the sector.

Learn more: www.hallmarkfoundation.org.uk

Nitesh Somani

CEO, Kara Healthcare

Nitesh Somani is the CEO of Kara Healthcare, a fast-growing care provider on a mission to redefine what great care looks like — and feels like. As the CEO of Kara Healthcare, he is leading one of the most exciting transformations in the care sector today. In just 12 months, he has taken Kara from two care homes to ten — not by chasing numbers, but by chasing purpose. His philosophy is simple: care should never be ordinary. It should be personal. Powerful. Full of heart.

From turning around struggling homes to building award-winning teams, Nitesh is proving that you can scale with soul — and that doing the right thing is not just good ethics, it’s good business. He is driven by a belief that the people in care — both those who give it and those who receive it — deserve more. More respect. More investment. More recognition. Because care is not just a service. It is one of the most human things we do. And Nitesh is on a mission to make it matter.

I am in…because every life holds a story — a story lives on only if someone wants to listen. And we choose to listen. I have seen what great care can do — not just for residents, but for families, teams, and entire communities. I believe care is not just a job — it is a calling, a purpose, and a privilege. The people in care deserve to be celebrated, supported and championed every single day. Behind every door of a care home are powerful stories of love, resilience, and humanity. I am in because when care is done with heart, it changes lives — it ignites love, sparks connection, builds trust, and creates memories that echo for generations.

Andrew Vaux

Head of Independent Health & Social Care – Practicus

Andrew has been supporting the health and social care sector for over 16 years, providing senior interim, permanent and executive recruitment solutions, as well as advisory services to a wide range of providers. His expertise spans leadership appointments across elderly care, adult care, specialist care and wider health services, helping organisations navigate transformation, regulatory change and growth. He has twice been voted one of the top recruitment consultants in the country for interim assignments.

“I am in because… the vital contribution care workers make to our communities is too often overlooked. That needs to change. Social care offers meaningful careers, rich in opportunity and purpose, especially for young people. I’m proud to play a part in raising the profile of the sector and everything it has to offer.”

Olivia Curno

Chief Executive, Elizabeth Finn Homes

Olivia Curno is a distinguished leader in the UK’s non-profit and social care sectors, currently serving as Chief Executive of Elizabeth Finn Homes. She assumed this role in March 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in charitable leadership and a strong commitment to social impact.

Prior to her current position, Olivia was the Chief Executive of the Vision Foundation, a charity dedicated to preventing avoidable sight loss and promoting the inclusion and empowerment of blind and partially sighted individuals . Her earlier roles include leading fundraising and communications at the children’s mental health charity Place2Be and the autism research charity Autistica.

Olivia’s academic background is rooted in science; she earned a PhD in Biological Sciences and a BSc in Biology from the University of Nottingham. Before transitioning to the charity sector, she was a researcher and lecturer in evolutionary biology.

In addition to her executive roles, Olivia has been actively involved in governance within the charitable sector. She served as a trustee for the anti-poverty charity Turn2us for six years and is currently a trustee of the Helen Bamber Foundation, which supports survivors of human trafficking and torture.

At Elizabeth Finn Homes, Olivia leads a network of care homes that are renowned for their high-quality services, with all homes rated as ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The organisation operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Turn2us, reinvesting profits to support individuals facing financial hardship across the UK.

Olivia is also a board member of Care England, the leading representative body for independent care providers in England. Her leadership is characterised by a dedication to social justice, quality care, and the empowerment of vulnerable populations.

I’m in because… I believe everyone deserves loving care and dignity, regardless of their background. As CEO of Elizabeth Finn Homes and through our partnership with Turn2us, I’ve seen how compassionate, values-led care can transform lives and create lasting social impact. Championing Social Care shines a vital light on the humanity at the heart of our sector — and I’m proud to stand alongside others who are raising the bar.

David Jones

Corporate Advisor and NED

David is a seasoned healthcare advisor and Chartered Accountant with over 30 years of experience supporting UK health and social care businesses through investment, growth, and transformation. As a long-standing Partner at Deloitte, he established and led one of the market’s most respected healthcare M&A teams, across aged care, specialist care, and community-based health services. His clients have included PE-backed operators, corporates, and mission-driven founders.

Deeply embedded in the sector, David has contributed to shaping policy and practice—supporting innovative NHS-private partnerships, advising regulators, and convening industry leaders to drive collaboration and best practice.

I am in because… the social care sector is full of unsung heroes—dedicated individuals and organisations making a daily difference. It’s time their work was recognised, supported, and celebrated on a national stage.

Stuart Callister

Founder and Managing Director, Severn Vale Home Care

At the heart of Severn Vale’s success is a values-driven approach. Founder and Managing Director Stuart Callister has built the business around a clear mission: to raise the bar in social care by recruiting individuals who reflect the company’s core values—dedication, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. These values aren’t just company mantras; they’re brought to life in every client interaction and team decision.

It’s this deep belief in quality, integrity, and dignity in care that drives Stuart’s support for Championing Social Care. He understands that behind every statistic in the sector are human stories—of carers going above and beyond, of families finding peace of mind, and of older people living safely, independently, and with purpose. Championing Social Care aligns with Stuart’s vision to give voice to these stories, challenge outdated perceptions of care work, and spotlight the sector’s vital contribution to society.

Kerry Southern-Reason

CEO, The Care Home Interiors Group

Kerry Southern-Reason, founder and CEO of The Care Home Interiors Group, is a passionate advocate for improving the lives of care home residents through thoughtful and impactful design. Since establishing her business in 2001, Kerry has combined exceptional craftsmanship, in-house manufacturing, and traditional handcrafting methods to transform care home interiors into welcoming, functional, and homely spaces.

A trailblazer in dementia interior design, Kerry has earned widespread recognition for her expertise in creating environments that prioritise the comfort, dignity, and independence of those living with dementia. Her innovative and compassionate designs have garnered numerous prestigious awards in categories such as dementia design and best interior design, reflecting her commitment to excellence.

Kerry’s advocacy for better care home environments extends beyond her design work. She frequently shares her knowledge and expertise at industry shows, events, and networking meetings, championing the transformative impact of well-designed interiors on the wellbeing of residents and care teams alike.

Her passion for promoting positive change in social care aligns seamlessly with the mission of Championing Social Care. As an advocate for the group, Kerry is eager to help amplify the inspiring stories and initiatives within the sector, shining a light on the incredible work being done by care teams across the country. By taking her role as Ambassador, Kerry looks forward to supporting efforts that celebrate the sector’s achievements and raise awareness of its vital contributions.

Bhavna Keane-Rao

Managing Director, BKR Care Consultancy

The social care sector touches the lives of every single person in this country. I am proud to be part of the sector where every day all the care heroes come out to support the most vulnerable people. They often don’t get paid properly for the work they do and often feel invisible but they still show up. Being an ambassador to championing social care is a privilege and an honour. It enables me to continue to raise awareness and sing from rooftop about what ay an amazing sector is and celebrate the achievements.

Amrit Sumal

Director, Superior Care Group

Amrit is an accomplished care leader with experience in nursing, residential, and complex care services. Driven by a passion for elevating care standards at every level, she – along with her team – is dedicated to delivering exceptional, person-centred support to individuals of all ages. As Director of Superior Care (Midlands) Ltd, Amrit oversees the operational and development of the services within the group, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, compliant services for both younger and older people.

Amrit also works for the National Care Association as its Compliance Director. She works closely with small and medium-sized care providers to help them navigate the complexities of sector regulations, helping maintain the highest standards of compliance and quality.

Amrit is a member of the Championing Social Care, Who Cares Wins Committee and is a passionate advocate for training and education and inspiring the next generation into care.

Amrit is a solicitor with over 20 years of experience in Regulatory Health and Social Care. She brings this wealth of knowledge and insight into her day-to-day role as Operations Director.

I am in it because...I want to shine a bigger and brighter spotlight on the positive stories that happen within the care sector that so often go unnoticed. The people, the families, the residents and wider stakeholders all make the profession unique, transformational and hugely rewarding.

Civitas Investment Management

We believe the best investments make a difference. Creating positive impact on people’s lives, communities and on the planet itself.

Civitas is a leading impact fund advisory firm investing across the UK and Continental Europe. Acting on behalf of institutional investors, our strategies invest in real assets backed by governments and local municipalities. Ultimately achieving social and sustainable impact for individuals and their communities.

Bevan Brittan LLP

Bevan Brittan LLP is a law firm which offers specialist health and social care legal services, right the way through from transactional advice (property, structuring, due diligence) to operational (workforce, compliance, governance, regulatory/CQC inspection, medical malpractice). We are proud to be the market leader in the delivery of full legal and regulatory services to the independent health and social care sector. Bevan Brittan partners Amanda Wright-Kluger and Vincent Buscemi are proud to fully and actively support Championing Social Care’s Care Home Open Week.

Health, Care & Regulatory Law | Bevan Brittan LLP

PLMR Healthcomms

PLMR Healthcomms is the specialist healthcare, social care and life sciences public affairs and market access team sitting within the PLMR Group.

PLMR Healthcomms – PLMR

Adopt a Grandparent

Adopt A Grandparent (AAG) is a pioneering charity dedicated to tackling loneliness among older people by fostering intergenerational connections. Our innovative programme pairs care home residents and older individuals with volunteers based on shared interests, creating meaningful relationships that transcend age and distance. Through secure video and audio calls, volunteers provide companionship, emotional support, and social interaction, enriching the lives of both parties. At the heart of our initiative is cutting-edge AI technology, which monitors emotional engagement, safeguards interactions, and provides real-time insights to ensure the highest level of care and connection. This data-driven approach allows us to track the impact of our programme, identify those most in need of support, and continuously enhance the experience for both our volunteers and ‘grandparents’. With thousands of volunteers worldwide and an expanding network of care providers, we are committed to creating a world where no older person feels alone.

pie – Passion In Events

Big Bang PR

pie (Passion in Events) specialise in developing and delivering bespoke corporate and charity fundraising challenges in the UK and Europe
We design and deliver bespoke events, concentrating on best service to create strong relationships
100% legal and fully compliant with Package Travel Directives
Never subcontract so you always get the same high standards
Our clients include blue chip companies and major charities
We specialise in tailoring events to your needs, delivering them with care and passion every step of the way
Events range from cycling sportives, classic climbs, iconic routes and everything in between
We are passionate about making what you want to happen… happen!
www.pieevents.co.uk

Big Bang PR

Big Bang PR is a boutique PR agency offering charities and adult social care organisations communications support that grows visibility amongst target audiences and enhances reputation through the media. It is the PR partner for Care Sector’s Got Talent and CHOW 2025

Mike Turton

Managing Director, Leaders In Care

Mike Turton is the Managing Director of Leaders in Care, a specialist healthcare recruitment consultancy that connects outstanding talent with providers across the health and social care sector. With over a decade of experience in recruitment, Mike’s passion for the industry is deeply personal—having grown up surrounded by family members working in nursing and healthcare, he developed an early appreciation for the dedication and compassion that defines the sector.

His career in recruitment was a natural fit, allowing him to serve an industry he deeply admires. Founding Leaders in Care was more than just a business venture for Mike—it was an opportunity to create a recruitment partner that goes beyond placing outstanding talent, but actively contributes to the sector’s growth and recognition. A core value of Leaders in Care is ‘Contributors to our Community,’ which reflects its commitment to supporting the sector beyond recruitment, working alongside industry leaders to position health and social care as a career of choice, and celebrating the dedication of those who work within it.

Why I’m in: I am proud to be an ambassador for Championing Social Care, as its mission aligns perfectly with my own—shining a light on the invaluable contributions of care professionals and ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. I am passionate about leading by example in the recruitment industry, championing corporate social responsibility, and investing in initiatives that elevate the sector.

Through my work, I strive to celebrate the heroes of social care, support their professional development, and inspire future generations to join the sector.

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-turton-%F0%9F%92%9A-abb66163/

Yasmeen Hassoun

Head of International Marketing for Person Centred Software

Yasmeen Hassoun is the Head of International Marketing for Person Centred Software, a leading technology provider for the social care sector, offering solutions for every step of the digital transformation journey. Focusing on areas such as resident experience, medication management, care management, learning & development and care operations, Person Centred Software is committed to drive outstanding outcomes for everybody living and working in care.

I am in because…I am passionate about supporting the people who care for the most vulnerable members of our society, who dedicate themselves to caring for our loved ones. On a daily basis, I can see how kind, driven and caring the people working in social care are, so I will take every opportunity to not only champion the incredible work they do but empower them throughout their digital transformation journey, helping to achieve even greater outcomes!

Kelly Howell

Chief People Officer, Aria Care

Kelly is the Chief People Officer at Aria Healthcare, a large care provider operating across the UK & Channel Isles. With over 20 years’ experience in HR across several sectors, Kelly’s passion for delivering the people agenda is unwavering. She is dedicated to ensuring people are recognised, rewarded and presented with opportunities to grow, develop and be the best possible version of themselves. She is committed to promoting the great work that takes place in the Social Care Sector as well as demonstrating the wide range of careers available and the incalculable job satisfaction that can be achieved from enriching the lives of those that live in the communities we serve

Adam Roberts

Business Support Manager, Aria Care

I joined Aria Care at the end of 2024, bringing over 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry, particularly within events. I am thrilled to be part of this committee and look forward to working with the team to contribute to the success of this incredible event.

carehome.co.uk

carehome.co.uk is the UK’s #1 care home review website and the go to resource for anyone searching for their perfect care home. They list the details of over 16,500 care homes and provide access to a huge number of independent reviews. This in turn attracts 15 million annual visitors to carehome.co.uk each year. They also provide a free care help telephone service to assist those who prefer to talk to someone directly.

Veteran Friendly Framework

The Veteran Friendly Framework is designed to help providers offer appropriate support for the thousands of veterans living in care homes across England. The Framework supports care home staff in identifying veterans and their wellbeing needs, addressing social isolation and providing signposting to statutory and charitable services. It is a quality improvement programme and is free to care providers.

Virgin Money

Virgin Money support for communities

We want to play a positive role in the communities where we operate. We believe that the strength of our business and our people is related to the health and wellbeing of those communities.

Thank and Praise

Thank and Praise Social Care Thanking Wall

TAP (Thank And Praise) enables communities to say thank you to care professionals on its digital thanking platform. TAP is easy to use, quick to send messages and GDPR compliant enabling users to enhance staff wellbeing through the power of gratitude!

Who Cares Wins

Register for Who Cares Wins.

National care careers conference for school and college students set for 19 November – Hallmark Foundation

Who Cares Wins is a celebratory conference that showcases diverse opportunities, not only in caregiving roles but also in marketing, finance, leadership, and beyond. We believe social care offers successful career paths for everyone, regardless of their interests. By collaborating with Championing Social Care, we aim to shine a light on the sector’s brilliance and inspire young people to explore the rewarding careers it offers.

Thank You Day

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https://thankyouday.org.uk/

Every year, Thank You Day brings together millions of people across the UK to celebrate and give thanks to those that go above and beyond for us. It is an opportunity to thank the people on your street, in your block of flats and all those local legends; the volunteers, teachers, carers who go the extra mile for us!

Silver Sunday

https://silversunday.org.uk/

Age UK’s Silver Sunday is a national day where people of all generations can come together by hosting fun and free activities for older people. It is a day where older people can meet new people, visit new places, try new activities and connect with their local communities and the generations around them.

Scottish Care

https://scottishcare.org/

Scottish Care is a membership organisation representing the independent social care sector in Scotland. We work with members and stakeholders in social care to create conditions for sustainable human-rights-based care and support.

Royal College of Nursing

https://www.rcn.org.uk/

Care home staff are an integral part of nursing in social care, and we’re proud to show our support this Care Home Open Week.
We are the world’s largest nursing union and professional body. Over half a million nurses, midwives, nursing support workers and students working together to advance our profession.

The King’s Trust

Raising the profile of working in social care among young people is a priority for us. The King’s Trust (formally the Prince’s Trust) provides 16 to 30-year-olds with free training courses, mentoring, and funding to help young people secure long-term careers in the health and care sector. We can work directly with your care home as well to bring some fantastic candidates your way and if you’d be interested email ku.gr1785516280o.tsu1785516280rtsgn1785516280ik@su1785516280htiwk1785516280row1785516280
Visit their website for more information:

https://sectors.kingstrust.org.uk/health-social-care

National Care Forum

https://www.nationalcareforum.org.uk/

NCF is the membership organisation for not-for-profit organisations in the care and support sector. NCF members collectively deliver more than £2.4 billion of social care support to over 265,200 people in 7600 care and support settings. They employ more than 124,400 colleagues and 16,100 volunteers.

NAPA

https://napa-activities.co.uk/

At the National Activity Providers Association, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals by championing the importance of activity, engagement and overall wellbeing.

Music for Dementia

https://www.musicfordementia.org.uk/

Music for Dementia is run by the Utley Foundation a private charitable trust. Our trustees witnessed the life-changing effect music has on people living with dementia and we have been campaigning to make music an integral part of dementia care ever since

HC-One

https://www.hc-one.co.uk/

At HC-One, kindness is more than a word, it’s a belief that caring for people means caring about what matters most for them. Whether it’s residential, dementia or nursing care, our actions and choices are guided by a heartfelt desire to support those in our care to live better each moment of every day.

Month of Community

https://www.edenprojectcommunities.com/month-of-community

Led by a collaboration of 13 partner organisations, the Month of Community is a time to come together to celebrate everyone and everything that makes our communities great. Millions of people take part every June to say cheers to volunteers, connect with neighbours, welcome refugees, take positive action for the planet, or to help out in their communities. There’s lots you can join in with where you live to support small charities, campaigns and good causes – together let’s make great things happen!

Care Workers’ Charity

https://www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/

The Care Workers’ Charity (CWC) is the leading organisation dedicated to supporting care workers across the UK. Every day, over 1.6 million care workers provide essential support to people drawing on care, yet they often face financial hardship, mental health challenges, and a lack of recognition for their vital work.

At the CWC, we believe that those who care for others should never have to struggle alone. Since our founding in 2009, we have provided financial grants to care workers facing personal crises, helping with unexpected costs such as rent arrears, funeral expenses, and essential household bills. Alongside financial support, we also offer mental health services, ensuring care workers have access to professional counselling and emotional wellbeing resources.

Advocacy is at the heart of what we do. Through research, policy engagement, and public campaigns, we fight for fairer working conditions, better pay, and recognition of care workers’ contributions to society. Our initiatives, such as our Charity of the Year partnerships and fundraising events, enable individuals and businesses to stand with us in supporting the workforce that keeps our social care system running.

Cohesion

https://cohesionrecruitment.com/

Cohesion are Social Care Specialists improving recruitment & retention for your organisation. They are a highly trained and experienced teams of recruiters, compliance officers and managers from within social care that understand the intricacies of recruitment and the values required in a specialist sector.

Cohesion deliver recruitment campaign & project recruitment, fully outsourced recruitment solutions, agency and bank management including neutral vendor managed services (temporary recruitment supply chain management), and retention services (exit and retention interviews). Cohesion support organisations to put in place Early Talent programmes, running Apprenticeship & Graduate schemes across multiple sectors.

Care Managers’ Show

https://caremanagersshow.co.uk/

The largest show dedicated to Care Managers. Join us in Birmingham

Samantha Crawley

Chief Executive Officer, Bracebridge Care Group

Samantha is a positive, proactive, and dynamic professional. She has a highly successful background spanning over 20 years in sales, marketing, operational delivery and business development within the care home sector. A Master NLP Practitioner, Hypnotherapy and Business Coach, Samantha loves to share information and mentor future leaders.

Having held senior positions in the sector’s larger providers, such as Barchester Healthcare, Anchor Trust, Sanctuary Group and Excelcare, Samantha has the ideal experience to develop the Bracebridge Care portfolio – and the knowledge required to ensure its success.

Samantha is a non-exec Director of The Outstanding Society, Samantha was awarded The Social Care Leadership award in 2023 and in 2024 was awarded the Leading Women in Care Award – Businesswoman of the year (Care Homes). Samantha was awarded the Chief Nurse Social Care Award in December 2022 for people who go above and beyond their roles

I am in because I want a world where living and working in care homes is something to be truly proud of. To do this, we need to continue to help people understand the value of care homes and social care – this is a way to help change hearts and minds regarding choosing care homes to live or work in.

Browne Jacobson

Healthcare and life sciences | Browne Jacobson

The law firm working to make a difference across business and society. Our core values define how we operate as one firm, across our offices nationwide. We aim to work with, recruit and retain people who are genuinely committed to tackling society’s biggest challenges. Our personality, approach and values are built on existing strengths, where loyalty and success are important drivers. Our people make us who we are. We’re dedicated to creating a positive and solutions-focused experience.

Welcome to Broadway Events | Home

At Broadway Events, we specialise in curating unforgettable experiences that contributes business growth. With a commitment to excellence, we are dedicated in creating events that spark inspiration, foster meaningful relationships and drive tangible results.

The Care Connector Network

https://thecareconnector.co.uk/

Connecting the UK Care Community for better outcomes. Care homes can spark discussions with other care homes by sharing ideas and experiences in the space creating our three C’s Connection, Collaboration, and Community.

Stephen Burke

CEO, Hallmark Care Homes Foundation and Goyal Foundation

Stephe Burke is CEO of two charitable foundations linked to Hallmark Luxury Care Homes: the Hallmark Foundation, which focuses on ageing well and improving care, and the Goyal Foundation, which focuses on empowering children, young people and women to tackle disadvantage in the UK and abroad.

Stephen is director of United for All Ages, an intergenerational think tank, and on the board of several charities. Previously he has been chief executive of national care charities and a public sector leader in local government, NHS and housing.

Eddy Fishwick

Managing Director & Chair, CareHomeLife

Eddy is a dynamic, enthusiastic leader of an outstanding customer service-led team at CareHomeLife, with a core purpose to honour all our loved ones with dignity in care, whose mission it is to provide care home essentials that prioritise people, planet, and pocket. He is driven by an unwavering passion to be by the side of care homes and the people who work there, to help them provide the very best care to the people who live there. Eddy has a natural zest for collaborating with all partners in social care to accelerate positive change – ‘supporting the care industry to be outstanding.’

I am in because… your vision to ensure a wider and deeper public understanding, appreciation and respect for social care, is aligned with my utmost respect, compassion and belief in the social care sector.

Nadra Ahmed CBE

Executive Co-Chairman, National Care Association, Last chair of the Care Provider Alliance.

Nadra has been Chairman of NCA since 2001. She has been involved in the field of
social care for over 40 years and until 2005 was the Registered Manager of two private
care homes for older people, having developed and run services since 1981 which
included a homecare service.
Nadra has served on numerous government taskforces and continues to do so. Through
Covid she became recognised as the respected voice of social care. Nadra has served
as the Vice Chairman of Skills for Care for 11 years having been appointed at its
inception: she was also a trustee of Parkinson’s UK and continues to support various
charities as a trustee/patron or president, despite her tight schedule; these include the
veterans charity RBLI and a small disabilities charity Spadeworks.
Nadra is the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent and a Kent Ambassador and served as the
High Sheriff of Kent in 2023/24 which is a royal appointment.
In 2006 she was awarded the OBE for her services to Social Care. She is a regular
contributor to journals and speaks regularly at national and international conferences
throughout the world. Nadra is regularly called upon by the major media networks to
represent the views of social care providers on some of the most challenging issues
facing social care.
Nadra is driven by a desire to ensure the delivery of quality services to the most
vulnerable members of our society. She works across a number of government
departments which have an impact on the social care world giving evidence and expert
advice to parliamentarians.
Nadra has been recognised by her peers receiving awards and has been listed as an
influencer in numerous polls and magazines. Her continued passion for social care saw
her being awarded the CBE for her services to Social Care

Zoe Fry OBE, RN, BSc

Director, The Outstanding Society

Zoe is a Director of the Outstanding Society Community Interest Company who shares and celebrates best practices across Social Care while helping others improve. Zoe is a registered nurse who started working in Care Homes at the age of 13. It was here that her love for the older generation began. Zoe’s career started in the NHS, where she quickly worked her way to being a surgical ward sister, matron for general medicine and then developed her business skills as a General Manager in the NHS. In 2008 Zoe purchased a nursing home and transformed it, celebrating Outstanding ratings from the CQC in 2014 and then again in 2017. In 2023 Zoe was recognised for Services in Social Care and Services to Nursing by being awarded an OBE in the Kings Birthday Honours List. Zoe feels privileged to work in Social Care.

I am in because…I strongly advocate elevating the dialogue surrounding the care sector, shedding light on its invaluable contributions often overlooked by society. We must recognise its significance and empower it to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape. By fostering awareness and support, we can propel the care sector towards its fullest potential, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of our communities.

Laura Davies

Chief Operating Officer, The Good Care Group

Laura Davies is the Chief Operating Officer at The Good Care Group, a leading provider of live-in care services with an Outstanding CQC rating.

Laura is a highly experienced and dedicated healthcare professional with a passion for delivering exceptional care and started her career in the police force.

I am in it because… “I am passionate about raising the the profile of the social care sector, it is of great importance to myself and The Good Care Group. The incredible work people do within the sector often goes unnoticed and this platform is a great way to recognise those talented and committed people.

James Allen

Chief Executive Officer, National Care Group (NCG)

James’s career in health and social care has spanned both the public and private sector and has seen him leading a variety of organisations focussed on the needs of people with complex needs. James joined National Care Group (NCG) in 2019 as Chief Executive Officer.

His experience and exceptional leadership skills have been instrumental in shaping NCG to become the fastest-growing social care provider in the UK and to be awarded Health Investor’s Complex Care Provider of the Year in 2022 and Community Support Provider of the Year 2023. Now employing 2,700 colleagues, and carefully planned care and support to over 1,400 adults – enabling them to achieve their full potential and to live as independently as possible within the community.

I am in because ..I want to help raise the profile and status of those working within adult social care so that their contribution to society is fully understood. Working collaboratively we can make a difference and bring about positive change to the lives of so many.

Shaleeza Hasham

Commercial Director, CHD Living and CEO, Adopt a Grandparent

Shaleeza Hasham is Commercial Director of CHD Living, an award-winning, family-owned and operated group of care services comprising residential care facilities, specialist rehabilitation & complex care centres, & a domiciliary care operation.

Shaleeza has supported the strategic business development & growth of CHD Living’s services whilst future-proofing & raising the business’s profile as a sector leader for innovation and change. She has devoted much of her time to implementing new technologies and systems across the business, ensuring that services are ready to meet the evolving needs of the people in her care and our ageing society.

Having a goal to revolutionise the way people view social care, Shaleeza brings over a decade of industry expertise to the table. Speaking to her extensive experience, Shaleeza has been the recipient of many prestigious industry awards, including ‘Young Entrepreneur of the Year’ at the Asian Business Awards.

Shaleeza also won HealthInvestor’s Power 50 “One to Watch” in 2023, an award that acknowledges the most inspiring & influential leaders in the health & social care industry. Additionally, she earned recognition as a finalist in the Woman Achieving Greatness in Social Care awards, celebrating the accomplishments of women throughout the entirety of the social care sector.

In her role as Founder and CEO of the Adopt a Grandparent charity, Shaleeza has played a pivotal role in spearheading the socially-driven initiative aimed at alleviating isolation among the elderly population. Under her guidance, the charity has grown exponentially, receiving support from nearly 100,000 volunteers worldwide. The initiative, seeking to nurture intergenerational connections & the sharing of life experiences, earned the charity the prestigious LaingBuisson award for ‘Outstanding Response to Covid in Social Care’. It also gained recognition from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as a pioneering organisation within the sector.

Shaleeza also sits on the Board of Directors of Spectrum Care Ltd, a specialist purchasing network that brings together care home operators from across the sector to share buying power and creating a support network of free events to facilitate helping operators in the care sector to learn, network & support one another.

Passionate about discussing issues impacting the health and social care sectors, Shaleeza regularly provides expert commentary on national and international news outlets and has featured on ITV News, BBC News, Sky News, CNN, Good Morning America and many more.

Stella Shaw

Founder, StellarCare NW LTD

Stella’s career trajectory reflects a rich blend of expertise, dedication, and innovation across healthcare and education sectors. Her journey showcases a seamless integration of clinical practice, education, and project management, all aimed at making substantial positive impacts in her field.

Stella’s foundational roles as a senior nurse and lecturer allowed her to contribute significantly to both clinical practice and nursing education. Her dual expertise equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in these roles, positively impacting patient care and shaping the next generation of nurses. Stella’s commitment to continuous learning and development led her to pursue a master’s degree in education. This further deepened her understanding of pedagogy and instructional design, empowering her to specialise in teaching clinical skills and integrating simulated technology into nursing education. This advanced qualification underscores her dedication to excellence in education.

Stella’s transition into project management within the NHS demonstrates her versatility and readiness to take on new challenges. Her success in streamlining workforce practices and implementing innovative models such as the Occupational Health Hub and Spoke model highlights her strategic thinking and leadership abilities.

Leveraging her diverse skill set and experiences, Stella founded StellarCare NW LTD in 2019, a home care company that adopts a blended learning approach. This innovative approach combines healthcare delivery with educational components, aiming to enhance home care services and reduce hospital admissions. The company’s recognition with awards underscores the effectiveness and impact of Stella’s visionary approach.

I am in because… It’s time to reimagine home care through a lens of innovation and technology, fostering a future that prioritises preventative healthcare. Embracing advancements in technology can revolutionise the way we deliver care at home, making it more personalised, accessible, and effective. By focusing on preventive measures and leveraging tools like remote monitoring devices and telemedicine, we empower individuals to proactively manage their health while ensuring they receive timely support from healthcare professionals. This proactive approach not only improves individuals’ quality of life but also relieves strain on hospital resources.

Lily Patrick

Marketing Manager, Majesticare

Lily has spent over six years in the social care sector, working in various roles, including frontline support. Through this experience, she deeply understands the dedication and passion of the workforce and believes in highlighting the importance of raising the profile of our skilled workforce, so they can be recognised for their invaluable work and dedication to the social care sector.

Lily has over seven years of experience in the social care sector, including frontline support. This hands-on experience has deepened her appreciation for the dedication and skill of the workforce, driving her commitment to raising their profile and ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve.

As Marketing Manager at Majesticare, Lily uses social media to showcase the sector positively, highlight career opportunities, and share inspiring stories of development and outstanding practices. She believes social media is a powerful tool for reshaping perceptions of social care and celebrating its skilled professionals.

Lily is passionate about inspiring the next generation to see social care as a fulfilling career choice. As a Championing Social Care Ambassador, she aims to encourage young people to join the sector and help ensure care professionals are valued and celebrated.

Robert Speker

Head of Wellbeing, Sydmar Lodge Care Home

Robert has worked in the health and social care sector for 15 years. He enriches, inspires and vitalises the lives of all the people in his care, with his imagination, ingenuity and energy producing an ever expanding array of activities, experiences and opportunities. Robert has specialised is dementia care since 2015 and is passionate about delivering the very best and most enriching activities to those in his care. Robert is the creator of the Care Home Album Covers project which received international acclaim.

I am in because… there is so much talent in the care sector and it’s great to focus on positivity and celebrating talent.

Ameet Kotecha

Managing Director, Boutique Care Homes

Ameet Kotecha is the Founder and Managing Director of Boutique Care Homes, an expanding family run company operating luxury care homes in the South East of England.

Ameet strives to ensure Boutique Care Homes delivers exceptional quality in every respect. His vision is centred around fulfilling the company’s ethos of being, ‘A warm and loving family where everyone feels at home’ where residents are cared for in exceptionally comfortable surroundings with a person-centred approach so that they can flourish.

Boutique Care Homes has gone from strength to strength and has built a strong reputation amongst its local communities and the care sector. The group has been recognised through industry awards, having been finalists in Laing Buisson and Health Investor awards in consecutive years. Having won numerous awards, the pinnacle was in November 2023 when Boutique Care Homes was honoured to be awarded the prestigious Best Care Group (Small) of the Year award at the 25^th National Care Awards and were fortunate enough to be shortlisted again for this cateogary in 2024. More recently, the group celebrated double success at the NAPA 2025.

Ameet is passionate in supporting communities and other worthy causes locally and worldwide, actively making charitable donations to alleviate poverty, educate the underprivileged and provide medical assistance to those who cannot afford it.

I am in it because…I am passionate about providing high quality care and an experience driven lifestyle for our residents to ensure they lead meaningful and active lives. I am immensely proud to be working with the social care sector which is inspirational, changes lives and supports communities. Let’s raise the profile together!

Michael Butler

Engagement Officer, NAPA

In his current role as an Engagement Officer at NAPA, Michael is tasked with creating engaging content for our members, as well as supporting fundraising activities and initiatives.

Prior to this, he spent 16 years as a Lead Activities Coordinator, delivering person-centred activities to individuals with Learning Disabilities, Dementia, and Cognitive Impairment.

Every day, his focus was on enabling individuals to live their lives in a manner aligned with their preferences, by emphasising individual life stories and customising activities to address specific needs.

During his spare time, he enjoys spending quality moments with family and friends, creating lasting memories for the future. he has two young girls who share my enthusiasm for adventure and mischief.

Lee Howard

Regional Director, Christie & Co

Lee Howard joined Christie & Co, in 2001 and has since worked within the care sector since 2006 assisting operators across the country to plan and implement their exit and growth strategies. Lee is Christie & Co’s Regional Director for the Midlands & North.

I am in it because… Care Home Open Week elevates providers throughout the sector and shines a light on the good work that they do for communities up and down the country. Care Home Open Week encourages greater community engagement and showcases career opportunities available in care which has so much to offer workers and compassionate individuals. We have worked with care providers for over 40 years and this brilliant week of events is an opportunity to highlight everything fantastic about the sector which often gets overlooked.

Steve McFall

National Accounts Director, EF-GROUP

I run the National Accounts Management team at EF-GROUP, which includes ensuring all clients are given the best support possible, accurate, speedy updates, and continuous support throughout the year including weekends, evenings and bank holidays.

In this role, I oversee client relationships and development, while keeping a close eye on current and future market trends.

As a result of the varied and fast paced environment the industry works to, this has resulted in an accumulation of knowledge and experience in supporting clients to achieve their business needs and goals.

I have a seasoned perspective on how to ensure the clients experience in working with the EF-group is productive, personable, and robust.

When I’m not keeping busy with ensuring our clients are completely satisfied, I enjoy playing golf (especially beating our CEO), following football with my two sons and quality family time.”

What it means to us: “Shining a positive light on the profile of the care sector and raising the profile is of paramount importance to us. We’ve worked with some of our care sector clients for over 20 years so to champion the incredible and hard work that the people within the sector do means a great deal to us and this is an amazing platform for us to showcase the incredible people that change lives on a daily basis.”

Liz Blacklock

Chief Executive Officer, NACAS

I have been a registered nurse for over 35 years, and I take immense pride in sharing that I began my journey as an Enrolled Nurse and gradually ‘ shaped ’ my career to where I am today. Throughout, my unwavering passion has always been a combination of Primary and Palliative care. I have had the pleasure of dedicating many enjoyable years to both community and practice nursing, all while balancing the responsibilities of raising a family.

Eight years ago, I decided to pursue another dream and along with my business partners, established an award-winning social care domiciliary service in Southern Hampshire. This venture at times, continues to be nothing short of an emotional roller coaster, but it is deeply rewarding as well.

It was through my involvement in the social care sector that I first discovered NACAS when we joined as an employer member. I am now privileged to serve as its CEO on a voluntary basis. My involvement with NACAS resulted in me receiving an invitation to assume the role of leading a steering committee responsible for initiating a Voluntary Care Register for England…

As fate would have it, I am delighted to say that after much hard work, today (01/09/2023) marks the official launch of this register.

I am in because: It is my sound belief that we must co-operate as a united team with one resounding single message, to ensure our voices are heard. Social care is incredibly diverse and multifaceted, and I consider myself privileged to be a part of it. As many individuals have justifiably highlighted it is also a key foundation of our healthcare system, even though it is seldom recognised as such.

To bring about meaningful change at the grassroots level, we must coordinate our efforts, offer mutual support, and shift the current negative narrative to a more positive one. Working together, we can create an impact and gain the recognition that social care rightfully deserves.

Professor Vic Rayner OBE

Chief Executive Officer – National Care Forum

Professor Vic Rayner OBE is Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Care Forum (NCF) – the leading association of not-for-profit care and support organisations, joining the NCF in 2016. As CEO she is the co-chair of the government Strategic Advisory Forum on the social care workforce, chair of the National Social Care Advisory Group on social care and technology and sits on a range of government and national specialist groups with a focus on the social care workforce, digital transformation, new models of care and regulation. Professor Rayner is a regular national and international speaker, and has extensive knowledge and expertise across a wide range of care, support, housing and social policy agendas.

“I am in because I think it’s important that the social care sector comes together to ensure everyone working in care, caring for their own loved ones and those receiving care and support are recognised and given the voice they deserve. With the Care Sector Fundraising Ball, Care Sector’s Got Talent and Care Home Open Week, Championing Social Care have created so many ways for us to do just that and demonstrate that social care matters to us all.”

Ann Taylor

Chief Executive Officer – Hilton Nursing Partners

Ann, a founding Director of Hilton Nursing Partners, has over 30 years experience of holding senior managerial positions within the health and social care sector. Ann chairs the Kent Integrated Care Alliance and sits on various local, regional and national groups to support the development of new models of care and the workforce development strategies to deliver them.

With a reputation for designing and developing new services Ann is responsible for creating the Hilton Model of truly integrated care from her own personal experiences.

More recently Ann, one of the founding members of WAGS (Women Achieving Greatness in Social Care), has supported the development of this national movement of exceptional leaders who come together to enjoy life, impart their knowledge and experience, and mentor the those rising stars who will become the next generation of WAGS.

To Ann the measurement of success for a social care leader is: “How society view us, the value we bring to support our community and the responsibility we undertake to ensure everyone has the support and opportunity to live their lives well”.

I am in because: The future of social care is dependant on the commitment of our workforce, I believe we have a responsibility to ensure they are recognised, rewarded and celebrated for their importance everyday!

Iain Clague BSc Dip APMT, BPL. MPSA

Founder Care Connector Network

Iain is the founder and CEO of The Care Connector Network, a partner in the Care Connector Learning Academy, and the owner of Complete Nutritional Care, he has dedicated his career to supporting and improving the care sector in various ways.

In 2020, Iain founded The Care Connector Network. This initiative was born out of a desire to support the care sector with educational materials, networking opportunities, and connections to a vast array of amazing suppliers. Iain recognized that the traditional ways of networking had dramatically changed and, in response, developed a platform in 2021 dedicated to Social Care.

“I am in Because I have learned that forming collaborations within a community is much more beneficial than trying to go it alone.”

Laurence Geller CBE

Founder and Chairman of Loveday & Co

Since founding his first hotel in 1989, Laurence Geller CBE has built a global hospitality empire. Geller lost his parents to dementia and has since devoted his life to the prevention,
treatment, and care of this condition. Geller has built a collection of world-leading dementia
care facilities while funding innovation and research to bring residents the highest level of
care and comfort. As Founder and Chairman of Loveday & Co, Geller has coordinated
private, public, academic, and philanthropic partners to create a world-leading provider of
specialist dementia care.
Loveday & Co have been recognised as pioneers of dementia care, winning the ‘Best for
Nursing Care’ award in 2019, 2021 and 2022, overall Gold trophy for ‘Best Individual Care
Home’ in 2021. Loveday residences have received an ‘Outstanding Rating’ by CQC. Geller
acts as an expert adviser in both the Department for Health and Social care and the
Department for Culture, Media & Sport.
As part of this responsibility Geller has worked to establish the UK as the global centre on
concussion in sport and related neurodegeneration. He has coordinated his network among
leading sport and medical experts in the UK, US, Canada, Switzerland. As Chancellor of the
University of West London (UWL), Geller funds and oversees major life sciences projects
through the Geller Institute for Ageing and Memory (GIAM), launched in June 2020 at UWL.
Laurence Geller is also the author of two thrillers set in the hotelier industry and has written
over 100 published articles.

“I am in because…. I have seen first-hand the brilliant work being done across the country.
The Care Sector Fundraising Ball is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate this.”

Elle Sena

CEO & Founder, Chislehurst Healthcare

Elle Sena, CEO & Founder, Chislehurst Healthcare

Elle has over 25 years experience working within the UK health and social care sector. Her experiences ranges from NHS to Independant Health and Social Care providers within senior management and executive roles.

Elle Sena has become well known within the UK healthcare industry for her positive energy, her proven history and understanding of delivering high-quality services and her extensive knowledge and experience in business, health & social care and recruitment. Elle is also passionately dedicated to her philanthropic work and has become heavily involved in supporting charitable organisations such as Caudwell Children, Malaika and the Hear to Aid Foundation where she is a trustee, to name but a few.

“I am in because… I am passionate, enthusiastic and committed to raising the profile of and supporting the social care sector in any way I can. I am always humbled to acknowledge the diverse social care workforce and its dedication – especially shown throughout Covid. This commitment and support of our carers forms a key component to the Chislehurst ethos and as its CEO and woman of colour within this sector, I am honoured to become an Ambassador for Championing Social Care.

Sanghamitra Chakravarty

Sanghamitra Chakravarty | Founder & CEO, InvictIQ

Sangha is the Founder and CEO of InvictIQ, a leading care sector technology and data solutions company. With their platform, audIT on Cloud, care providers can now optimise caregiving time, enhance care quality and efficiency. Sangha also co-founded Data Cafe, pioneering the UK’s Social Care data movement – the safe space where care professionals come together to explore the boundless potential of data in delivering better care.

I am in because … Care sector impacts us all, yet often goes unnoticed until necessity arises. This sector doesn’t just give in abundance; it creates opportunities to change lives. By Championing Social Care we celebrate today’s care heroes and ignite the spark for even more to emerge.

LinkedIN link : https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanghamitra-chakravarty/

InvictIQ link : www.invictiq.com

Data Cafe link : https://www.linkedin.com/company/care-data-cafe/

Clare Auty

Partner and Head of Independent Health and Care, Browne Jacobson

Clare is an experienced corporate and commercial lawyer specialising in the health and care sector. She advises a wide range of clients including providers, operators, investors and developers across the sector including care homes, specialist care, integrated retirement communities and in-home care. Clare also leads the health tech practice at Browne Jacobson.

Clare has had a varied career spending over 16 years in-house the majority of which were at board level. Five years were spent with a tech provider that developed PAS and imaging systems and seven on the board of a provider of secure mental health. This breadth of experience gives Clare a rounded approach to advising the care sector.

“I am in because……it is time for the care sector to be recognised and applauded for the compassionate care it provides to the most vulnerable in our society. The sector has one of the most diverse and resilient workforces that continuously strives to improve the lives of others through collaboration and dedication. It is time to shine a light on the positive aspects of the care sector and celebrate all that it does.”

Adam Purnell

Director, The Caring View & Director of Social Care IHSCM (Institute of Health and Social Care Management)

Adam Purnell (he/him), director of social care for the instituted of Health and Social Care management (IHSCM) is a passionate former care manager and keen social care campaigner. He is an ambassador for John’s Campaign, co-founder and host of The Caring View” the only live, weekly, social care chat show, and helped create the ‘#GreenHeartForSocialCare Campaign.Adams work at the IHSCM focuses on providing quality content and support to their social care members. He also leads the social care innovators for the IHSCM and he recently produced a ‘People Plan for Social Care’ calling for reform for the sectors workforce.

I am in it because…social care is more than a sector; it’s and idea, its community, its people, its passion and dedication, its support and its being supported; it’s so much more than a headline or a job and every inch, every corner of social care needs to be recognised and celebrated. I’m keen through my roles and platforms to encourage a new generation into the social care workforce whilst ensuring that the people at the centre, those using care services lead the way.

https://www.autumna.co.uk/

As the UK’s largest source of self-funding care enquiries, Autumna delivers targeted leads to care providers, based on location, needs, and budget. Our care finding service and detailed directory connect care providers with high-potential families actively searching for the right care solutions – maximising your marketing efforts.

Lifeways is the UK’s leading team of support professionals for adults with diverse and complex needs living fulfilling and independent lives in the community. Lifeways provide supported living and residential care for people living with complex needs, including, acquired brain injury, learning disability, autism, physical disabilities and mental health.or whom we care.

Aria Care delivers high-quality care and support in the elderly social care sector, with welcoming communities that include residential homes and those offering nursing care as well as dementia care. Their care homes offer positive and supportive environments for all those who live and work in our communities, focused on improving the quality of life for whom we care.

Florence was founded by Dr. Charles Armitage and Dan Blake to give social care workforce the community and tools it needs. Florence’s tech helps professionals take control of their working lives, connects teams and frees up time to make a real difference. The organisation currently engages over 90,000 care professionals and 2,000 organisations have joined us since 2017.

Jade Kent

Solicitor at Stephens Scown LLP

Jade is a solicitor within the Corporate and Commercial team at employee-owned and B Corp Certified law firm Stephens Scown LLP. Her day-to-day work involves supporting clients to buy and sell businesses, but she also works on re-structures, re-finances, commercial contracts and governance.

Jade is a key member of the Healthcare team at Stephens Scown and regularly advises clients on disposals and acquisitions of their healthcare businesses, including care homes, supported living, homecare and children’s services.

“I am in because… I believe in any initiative to raise the profile of the social care sector, which affects us all. The people within the sector are amazing and often an inspiration to work with and we need to do all we can to encourage new up and coming people into the sector to carry on the legacy of the great work the current cohort promote.”

Chand Kaur

Director of No1 Healthcare and CEO of PCOS Relief

Chand Kaur is a professional, carrying significant experience as a Director of No1 Healthcare LTD and CEO of a Women’s Welfare Charitable Organisation – PCOS Relief.

Chand has been passionate about building No1 Healthcare, an award-winning firm, that is responsible for many key services provided to both the NHS and Health and Social Care Sector and is also responsible for taking care of workers wellbeing. Chand is also instrumental in establishing benchmarks in terms of covering all aspects of human wellbeing, from working life, quality lifestyle, learning, training, safety, physical, working environment , and women hygiene. Chand has been an advisor to many leading panels within the Healthcare sector, contributing to both the Scottish and English healthcare systems.

Chand has been an advocate in championing Women Health for conditions such as, PCOS, Endometriosis and Menopause, especially with her contribution to her women welfare charitable organisations, that supports females worldwide, who has been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, she has been able to raise awareness and conversation within the Scottish Parliament, Women Health Plan and Parliament of India, Ministry of Health, and Family Welfare.

I am in it because …. I am invested, commitment and passionate about raising the profile of the sector and highlighting the hard work the Health and Social Care sector provides.

Christoph Marr

Founder & Managing Director, Marr Procurement

‘Christoph founded Marr Procurement, the UK’s care sector procurement specialist, because there had to be a fairer, values-based and more transparent way to do business where clients and suppliers benefit from an open, equitable relationship, one where trust is the driving force. Relentless in seeking to level the playing field for clients and ensuring they have equal access to the best procurement services and the best suppliers, remain critically essential today.

We have worked with fifty six care providers across the UK, delivering savings without compromising on care or quality. At the heart of Marr Procurement is marrgo, the care sector’s first truly curated buying website. Marrgo provides users across your organisation with an easy-to-use web interface and a complete supply base which we professionally manage and regularly compete and which meets all your purchasing needs.’

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I’m in because…‘It is a great opportunity to have some fun, celebrate and support those who work in the care sector and their mental health. We believe in the difference Championing Social Care makes and are privileged to be a partner, not least given our shared values of integrity, fairness and quality.’

Mark Beadle

Chair of Lifeways Group

Mark Beadle chairs Lifeways Group, the UK’s largest supported living specialist that supports almost 5,000 people across the country to live more fulfilling, independent lives. He also chairs Springfield Healthcare which operates 6 care homes and a domiciliary care service across Yorkshire.

Mark has worked in the health and social care sector for the last 20 years in a variety of executive and non-executive roles.

“I am in because…the work done each and every day by our kind, compassionate and caring colleagues needs shouting from the roof tops!”

Anthony Duhig

Chief Commercial Officer, Person Centred Software

Anthony has over 16 years of experience in bringing digital technology to care homes that positively impacts the lives of people receiving care and working in the social care sector, having been a member of the original team that launched Person Centred Software (PCS) back in 2013. Anthony has overseen the growth of PCS, which began with just a few care homes using PCS’s Digital Care Planning System. Today, over 4,000 care homes and 250,000 care staff are trained across PCS’s range of digital technologies, including the Digital Care Planning System, eMAR (a market-leading electronic medicines management system), Digital Reception (a front-of-house, hands-free reception system) and the company’s new Oomph Activities and Wellbeing platform, which provides a range of services around wellbeing activities for residents and staff.

“I am in because…on a daily basis, I can see how caring and kind the people who work within the social care sector are, so I will take every opportunity to champion and support these amazing people who look after our loved ones.”

Debbie Harris

Founder & Managing Director, Autumna

Debbie Harris has been an innovator and leader in the care industry for over a decade. She was the visionary who founded care home reviews and now runs Autumna, the UK’s largest and most detailed online directory of later life care.

Debbie’s innovations continue with S.A.F.E infection control, CHOICE Dining, Live Ratings and D.A.D (Dashboard for Accelerated Discharge) all of which come together to give families and care professionals alike, easier access to the information they need to find appropriate and available care.

I am in it because …. The social care sector is such an incredible sector with so many opportunities. The work we do changes lives and all too often we hear too much of the negative and not enough of the positive. It is incumbent on us all in the sector to shout louder and raise the profile of all the amazing things that our fabulous teams do every day!

Aneurin Brown

Managing Director, Hallmark Care Homes

Aneurin Brown is the Managing Director of Hallmark Care Homes and Santhem Residences which is an established, family-run care provider that has three CQC rated ‘Outstanding’ homes in England and three Excellent rate homes in Wales. It provides residential, nursing and dementia care to over 1300 residents across 22 locations in England and Wales and has won over 100 awards over the last 25 years including; ‘Residential Care Provider’ at the 2021 Health Investor, National Care and Leaders in Care Awards ceremonies. Santhem Residences is the first Integrated Retirement Community of the group which offers retirement living and domiciliary care services in Essex.

Aneurin’s remarkable contributions have garnered recognition, including being featured in Care Home Professional Magazine’s 2023 Power List and receiving the Executive Care Home Leader title at the 2023 Leaders in Care Awards and 2022 Social Care Leadership Awards ceremony. Aneurin is a Chartered Health and Safety professional with particular areas of focus and specialisms in regulation, risk management, environmental health and policy.

Aneurin is also a member of the Champion Social Care Organising Committee. Aneurin is a trustee of the Goyal Foundation and is a frequent speaker at industry events, bringing a wealth of knowledge and insight.

Aneurin is a fluent Welsh speaker, and his spare time is Chair of the National Eisteddfod of Wales Technical Committee.

I am in it because …. The social care sector such an incredible sector with so many opportunities. The work we do changes lives and all too often we hear too much of the negative and not enough of the positive. It is incumbent on us all in the sector to shout louder and raise the profile of all the amazing things that our fabulous teams do every day!

Heledd Wyn

Partner, Shakespeare Martineau

Heledd Wyn is an experienced solicitor specialising in future planning, as is well known for her expertise in long-term and elderly care matters. Her knowledge of navigating the legal aspects of the care system, particularly the funding of care and challenging the decisions made by local authority assessments, make her invaluable to those dealing with care planning for themselves, or their loved ones. Heledd has particular experience in dealing with NHS Continuing Health Care funding and Court of Protection applications.

“I’m in because social care is something that affects us all. Whether you are someone who needs care or are the relative or even employer of someone who is a carer then you need to know what your rights are. We need to ensure that social care is on every agenda for change”

Rob Martin

Managing Director, Anchor

Rob Martin, as Managing Director Care Services for Anchor the 4^th largest Care Home operator, is responsible for 127 care homes, 3 retirement villages, 8 domiciliary care services, and is an Executive Director of Anchor Hanover Ltd. He is also the “Nominated Individual” with the Care Quality Commission.

He was previously the Director of Care Quality and has been working as part of the senior leadership team at Anchor since 2013. Rob has also experience over 5 years as a Non-Executive Director.

Rob has built his experience in the social care sector over the last 22 years, one of his first roles in social care was as a Registered Manager in the North-West of England. After leaving school, Rob served with 40 Regiment in the Royal Artillery for almost 7 years, where he developed many of the skills that he continues to apply today in a high-pressure role.

He has undertaken the Top Manager Programme with The King’s Fund; the programme has a 30-year history of developing senior leaders within Health and Social Care. Rob was recently recognised as one of the top 10 most influential people in social care as part of the Social Care top 30.

Rob’s most recent achievements include acquiring Halcyon care group (11 care homes), moving to pay the living wage foundation rate for all colleagues in Anchor and opening one of the first carbon neutral care homes in the Country.

I am in it because… I see lots of amazing moments and the positive impact on people’s lives in social care. It’s important that society has a greater appreciation of the social care workforce and the difference they make.

Tobi Alli-Usman

Managing Director, Prosperwell

Tobi is the Founder and Managing Director of Prosperwell, the UK’s leading, multi-award winning, care sector digital marketing agency. They work with some of the most successful care home and home care providers in the UK, helping care homes build back occupancy and helping home care providers increase their weekly hours and recruit new staff. You can catch Tobi on his podcast Tea With Tobi, where he and his guests share growth strategies for the sector.

I am in because… I believe we need to bring awareness to the conversations within the care sector, we need to shine a light on its value that is so often missed and support it to become the best it can be in an increasingly digital world.

Dan Blake

Founder & COO, Florence

Dan is a former army officer and financial services professional. He is focused on the day to day operations, commercial business and making sure Florence provides the very best customer experience possible for nurses, carers and care homes. Dan is married to his very supportive wife Emma, and they have three young boys to keep them busy.

I am in because…I started Florence because I knew I wanted to start a company to make a difference, to do something. I always think it’s important to do something you know and understand and because I was working in the care sector and had seen some of the challenges, I got together with Charles, and we decided to give it a go! Becoming a founding partner of Championing Social Care was a given, having seen the work they have done for many years. Any way we can support, give back to and highlight the challenges (and success) that frontline staff experience is really important to us. I can’t wait to work with key members across the industry to really give back in the most meaningful way possible.

Sanjay Dhrona

Managing Director, The Closer Care Home

In seven years, Sanjay’s journey in Social Care have been a complete roller coaster. Leaving a career in hospitality and events, he took over a once great care home, which was faced with 2 embargoes, 2 warning notices an inadequate rating. The Close Care Home, now sits with a full outstanding rating and counts titles like Care Home of Year, Best Individual Care home and Small Care provider of the Year in its many accolades. Sanjay is a passionate advocate of sharing knowledge and best practice and is highly committed to increasing and improving DE&I practices in the social care space.

I am in because – the sector needs to celebrate its successes and promote best practise. The sector is full of amazing people doing exceptional and meaningful work and I am proud to be an open and outward supporter of the people and the work we do.

Sarah Hyman

COO, www.nexusmediagroup.co.uk

Sarah has spent the last ten years working in the health and social care sector. She is currently Chief Operating Officer at Nexus Media Group, a media and events company focusing on the health, social care, education and early years communities. HealthInvestor and Caring Times are amongst the portfolio at NMG, providing the health and social care sector with breaking news, analysis and a number of major events.

“I am in because…social care is underrepresented, underfunded and underappreciated, let’s change that.”

Fiona Millington

Chief Nurse, www.florence.co.uk

Fiona Millington is the Chief Nurse at Florence Staffing Ltd, and has over 35 years of experience within the Healthcare industry. Her role is to primarily oversee the professional development, and governance of the Florence workforce. Fiona has specialised in the care of older adults and as such is a strong advocate for excellence in care, whilst working to ensure that there is equality within the social care workforce. Despite the significant challenges faced by the Social Care industry over recent years, Fiona is committed to supporting and promoting social care as one of the most rewarding and fulfilling careers for those interested in embarking on care delivery within their communities.

“I am in because…Social care is the backbone of the Health industry. Very often the care deliverers who make the difference are rarely seen and infrequently celebrated! It’s time to change that pattern by highlighting the good work and the great people who work within this sector.”

Alastair Clegg

CEO, Renovo Care

“I am in because…I’m thoroughly late to the social care party, having worked in other sectors until very recently, and I have been blown away by the professionalism and compassion of the very brilliant people who work at the front line of care. Anything I can do to help and support them, I will.’

Helen Stokes

CEO, Eden Futures

Helen has over 25yrs experience working in the health and social care sector, ranging from secure care to community services.

She has held a number of senior positions in the private and charitable sector, developing teams and growing businesses in line with commissioner needs. Helen started her career as a health care assistant and believes this set the foundation for her enthusiasm and passion for the sector, supporting the most vulnerable people in our society.

“I am in because…I am enthusiastic about raising the profile and supporting the social care sector to engage, enable and empower the current workforce, recognising their dedication, value, and commitment.’

Palvi Dodhia

COO & Director, Serene Care

A care home Provider who started her career working at a number of global investment banks. Along with co-founder Jay Dodhia (CEO), she has used her project management, operational experience, and complementary skills to help build Serene Care into an award-winning boutique care home owner-operator that specialises in improving the lives of elderly residents who may have Dementia. Her passions lie in not only ensuring Serene Care’s residents get the best quality care that they deserve but also in being an active member of the wider social care innovators community; this includes being co-chair of the IHSCM’s People Plan group as well as supporting a number of organisations such as Dementia UK, The Care Workers Charity and raising awareness for equality and diversity across the sector.

“I am in because…I am passionate about promoting the amazing work that is being done each and every day by our fantastic social care workforce.’

Tarryn Gorre

CEO and Co-founder, Kafoodle

Tarryn Gorre is CEO and Co-founder of Kafoodle she is a respected hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience. Tarryn has worked in a variety of food businesses in various roles helping grow, open and build businesses both within the UK and globally. Kafoodle is a result of this with its easy to use kitchen management system that allows care providers to easily report on costs, nutrition and allergens in their menus and meal plans improving the lives of residents and those in their care.

I am in because… ‘this is an industry I am passionate about and we need to support those who truly care and are making a difference

Karen Hedge

National Director, Scottish Care

Karen is an ambassador for social care. Her career began as a paid carer whilst studying at university and whilst rewarding, she quickly became motivated by the pressures on the sector. A champion for participation and co-production, she believes that evidence of impact is the difference it makes for people. Promoter of an evidence-based approach and self-confessed data geek, she sits on the Leadership team of ImPACT working to address the evidence implementation gap. She has worked at various seats round the social care table, as well as for Government and as Director of the Prince of Wales Foundation. In her current role as Deputy CEO of Scottish Care, she continues to shape the future of social care with a focus on human rights, commissioning, fair work, and technology. When not working, this Ayrshire lass can be found on the beach with her family. Wild Sea Woman Leader, coastguard, FRSA MIoD and wannabee salty sea dog.

“I am in because…I believe in celebrating the good in social care with a view to making a difference for people, but also to share my joy of the sector, and have it recognised as a career of choice.’

Zahid Khan

Zahid Khan, Head of Wellbeing, Avery Healthcare

Zahid is the Head of Wellbeing for Avery Healthcare, one of the largest care home providers in the UK.

Zahid leads on Avery’s wellbeing strategy ensuring residents benefit from high quality and person-centred engagement and has many years of experience working within the care sector. He is passionate about supporting service improvements, training and the implementation of various projects with the focus being on wellbeing, engagement and stimulation including the resident’s daily-lived experience whilst living with Avery

“I am in because…it’s important to value, celebrate and acknowledge the impact of those everyday heroes who work in the social care sector.’

Amanda Wright-Kluger

Partner, Bevan Brittan

Amanda Wright-Kluger is a partner at Bevan Brittain. She was previously a trial lawyer specialising in medical negligence in the USA for 13 years. Amanda now represents Independent Healthcare Providers and NHS Trusts in inquest and advisory and regulatory matters. The bulk of Amanda’s cases are complex and high profile inquests, many with juries and involve multiple parties including police. Amanda is a seasoned and experienced advocate and advises Trusts and Independent Care Providers in terms of quality and governance/lessons learnt as well as giving training on various aspects of litigation. Amanda is a lead on business development within Independent Health Care across all health and social care related law including corporate, commercial and property matters.

“I am in because…I believe the social care sector is a brilliant shining light in our Country and one that must be cherished, valued and promoted.’

Vincent Buscemi

Partner and Head of Independent Health and Care Bevan Brittan

Vincent is a highly experienced lawyer, specialising in commercial, corporate and regulatory law who advises healthcare, social care and retirement living operators, providers, investors, funders and developers on a diverse range of commercial, corporate and regulatory transactional matters.

Vincent is a former operator in the specialist social care market and combines real-world market insight into the legal and advisory work for clients.

I am in it because “My background is in social care where I was an operator for 10 years and so I am passionate about the sector. I believe social care is a vital service and deserves to be recognised for the extraordinary work they do. My hope is that we can work towards a future where the crucial role social care plays in our society is recognised by all and together I believe we can make that happen.”

Paul Bridge

CEO Social Housing, Civitas Investment Management

Paul is the Chief Executive Officer within the Social Housing strategy and a co-founder of Civitas Social Housing PLC.

Paul has worked in all aspects of Social Housing for over 30 years and is a senior industry figure. From 2008 to 2014, Paul was Chief Executive of Homes for Haringey, a Registered Provider, where he was responsible for 1200 staff and 23,000 homes. The organisation was awarded ‘Housing Organisation of the Year’ in 2012 , gained Investors in People Gold and delivered a £250m investment programme . For eight years prior to this, Paul was a Director at Hyde Group, a major G15 Housing Association, which provides homes and services to more than 95,000 customers.

Throughout his career, Paul has been responsible for leading large scale physical, social and economic regeneration projects properties across the UK. During his career, Paul has also held a variety of non-executive roles in and out of the sector and was the Chairman of Thames Valley Charitable Housing Association which established a successful private rental sector business funded by equity and debt through various institutional investment funds and group board member of MTVH one of the largest Housing Associations in the country. Paul was co-founder of a sector-leading think tank and has written extensively on social housing and policy issues.

I am in it because “increasing the profile of the social care sector is of great importance to myself and Civitas, the incredible work people do within the sector often goes unnoticed and this platform is a great way to highlight those talented and committed people.”

Derek Breingan

Head of Health & Social Care, Virgin Money

Derek has many years of UK multi banking experience but has a personal passion for social care and has become actively involved in the national care agenda much of which supports a wide variety of health and social care businesses. These include aged care, specialist care and looked after children. Derek joined the bank in 2010 to create a dedicated sector approach and promote a new challenger bank to support health and social care in the UK.

I am in because… it is time that the dedication and passion delivering social care shown by the amazing people working in the sector is suitably recognised and celebrated alongside the valued residents and families who rely on them.

Issac Theophilos

Director, Outstanding Care Homes (OCH)

Issac is the Director of the strategic and operational care home consultancy firm Outstanding Care Homes (OCH). OCH has helped many care homes to come out of regulatory challenges to move from a Good to CQC Outstanding rating, ultimately care home residents receiving nothing less than “Outstanding care”.

Issac Theophilos is the Author of the Amazon best-selling care home sector book – “How to get Outstanding”.

Issac’s career journey started from being a carer, nurse and becoming a Manager of five stars CQC rated nursing home to a top-rated care home consultant. Issac’s skillset ranges from clinical management, leadership, people management, coaching and mentoring, business and finance acumen specific to the care home sector.

Issac is also the founder of carehomeshopping.com, the first online market place for the social care sector founded to support care homes during the pandemic.

I am in it because “everyone deserves ‘outstanding care’ when unwell regardless of their social or economic status. The purpose of my life is to make that happen through my work. Humbled to be an ambassador for championing the social care sector because it is so close to my heart.”

Kate Lee

Chief Executive, Alzheimer’s Society

Kate joined Alzheimer’s Society as their Chief Executive in March 2020. Prior to this role, she was CEO at children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent for four years, during which time she rebranded the organisation, setting new values and building a culture of total team working. She successfully lobbied Government to fund the funerals of all children under the age of 18 and founded the Children and Young People’s Cancer Coalition.

She was previously CEO of Myton Hospice, a large Adult Palliative Care Charity in Coventry and Warwickshire, where she worked with many individuals with dementia and their families. Before that Kate spent 16 years at British Red Cross leading UK service delivery, before becoming Director of UK and International Strategy and Deputy CEO in 2005.

Kate’s a proud Yorkshire woman and now lives in Coventry with her husband and two teenage children; she loves gardening and tea.

‘I am in because… we need to do everything we can to create a social care system that supports the most vulnerable people in society, including those affected by dementia, at the times in their lives when they need it most’

Mark Topps

Regional Business Manager, Social Care Thought Leader

Mark is a passionate and multi award winning social care leader who has worked in the care industry since 2004 and is currently working as a Regional Support Manager.

Mark can be found regularly advocating, appearing on television, radio and podcasts and has started numerous high profile campaigns which have been debated in parliament and across the world and have a combined petition signature list of over 1.7million creating a change in legislation and culture within the industry.

Mark is also the Social Media & Marketing Director at NACAS.

I am in because… I am passionate about increasing the positive image of social care and highlighting how amazing the sector is to work and build a career within.

Divyesh Patel

Care Business Development Manager, Entegra Europe

Divyesh leads the Care Sector for Entegra Europe, working closely with each account to achieve their individual needs. Originally from a design and build background, did many projects working with the NHS, designing and manufacturing wayfinding signage and sanitiser stations.

Entegra’s approach to procurement is holistic; encompassing the best prices in the market, operational support, a team of experienced chefs and procurement software management. We support the care sector with our purchasing expertise to deliver the best financial results into the care sector whilst freeing their teams to deliver care into their communities.

I am in because… I love hearing about care professionals in all that they do. I want to see and help promote the sector professionals involved, to get the recognition they deserve.

Steven Fergus

Head of Healthcare, Barclays

Steve joined Barclays in 2019 and was appointed Head of Healthcare in 2020. With over 15 years’ experience within Corporate Banking, he has undertaken roles ranging from leverage finance to client coverage with his focus being purely on Healthcare over the past 7 years. The Barclays Healthcare team supports a wide-ranging client base with its dedicated specialist approach, industry knowledge, and sector-specific products and services.

“I am in because… I see every single day some of the amazing work undertaken by the care sector and want to see it finally get the recognition it deserves.”

Jon Wilks

Chief Executive, Institute of Health & Social Care

“I am in because… social care needs to find and celebrate its champions. Champions inspire the next generation of social care superstars and promote the idea of social care as a fulfilling and rewarding career. The Institute of Health & Social Care exists to support and encourage the development of our members and I am delighted to act as an Ambassador for Championing Social Care on behalf of those members.

Lady Christabel Flight

Founder, Silver Sunday

Christabel Flight has been a Westminster Councillor since May 2006 when she took up the mantel of championing the City’s 65+ residents. She has since served as Westminster’s Older People’s Champion; Editor of Westminster Plus for Westminster’s 30,000 freedom pass holders and currently serves as the Deputy Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health.

Christabel created the annual Christmas Tea Dance (held at the Grosvenor Hotel in Park Lane) which is now in its fifteenth year. It is a free event for 1000 Westminster residents aged 65+ and provides the opportunity for people to forge new friendships and dance to live music.

She has twice staged a free Music Hall event for 2000 seniors at the ENO London Coliseum and went on to establish the Sir Simon Milton Foundation. Christabel also started Silver Sunday, a National day in October celebrating older people which has now become a national institution. In 2019 over 1200 events took place throughout the country, see Silver Sunday.

Christabel’s interesting career before joining Westminster included many years with auction houses Christie’s, Sotheby’s and Bonhams in London and Hong Kong (1968-83); Managing the offices of John Powley MP and John Maples MP. (83-86), Fundraising for Worcester Cathedral holding a sale of the 100 top British living artists. and The English Church in Venice again by inviting artists to Venice and asking them to create something inspired by it.

MacMillan Cancer Relief Chairing the House of Commons/House of Lords Tug of War Becoming a Conservative Party Treasurer, Chairing ‘Contact” a Women’s Political Forum held monthly in the House of Commons. For 14 years She is also mother to four and grandmother to eight children and has a border terrier “Doris”

Christabel served as Lord Mayor of Westminster between 2015 – 2016.

I am in because… Silver Sunday www.silversunday.org.uk shares the same values as Championing Social Care. Together we can make a real difference.

Fill out the form below to download a #sparkleforsocialcare pack.

Amanda Marques

Owner and Director, Cohesion

Amanda co-owns Cohesion, who provide recruitment and workforce solutions to the sector. Since buying the business in 2009 the team have worked with providers both large and small across all areas of social care.

Cohesion are a Care England Supporter and an NCF Annual Partner and have recently sponsored a PhD at Aston University entitled: “Effective Recruitment & Selection in the UK Care Sector”. They regularly share their knowledge and experience via white papers and events and work hard to promote the opportunities in the sector to a wider audience.

“I am in because… I wholly subscribe to the notion that you can measure a society by how it treats its most vulnerable members and that everyone has a role to play in improving the status quo.”

Hilary Woodhead

Executive Director of NAPA

Hilary Woodhead is Executive Director of NAPA; The National Activity Providers Association. Hilary leads the charity in supporting the sector to prioritise wellbeing. She is dedicated to promoting the importance of activity, arts and engagement and believes all those with care and support needs should live content and connected lives.

Hilary is a dementia specialist with a special interest in knowledge and skill development, she is committed to professionalising the role of Activity Professionals.

NAPA takes an appreciative approach, acknowledging and sharing excellent practice inactivity, arts and engagement across the social care sector.

“I am in because… it is more important than ever that we share the incredible work of our sector.

We must do all we can to appreciate and support our workforce to take good care of themselves and to develop their knowledge, skills and resilience. I am amazed every day by the hard work and commitment the social care sector demonstrates and I feel passionately that we must ensure we acknowledge the difference each and every person makes to the lives of the people they support

Jonathan Cunningham

Registered Care Manager, Birkdale Park Nursing Home

Jonathan Cunningham is the Registered Care Manager for Birkdale Park Nursing Home and Rosebank Care Home for Learning Disabilities In Southport. In addition Jonathan is also the founder of the UK Care Home Managers Inner Circle with over 3.5k registered members. He is passionate about the delivery of inspirational care.

“I am in because… I love anything that raises the voice of social care and brings about transformational care for societies most vulnerable. This is a fantastic initiative and honoured to support it!”

Lisa Carr

Editor, Care Talk

Lisa has worked in the social care sector for over 20 years. Having worked in a frontline support role herself, she appreciates first-hand the dedication, commitment and selflessness of our workforce.

Now Editor at Care Talk magazine, Lisa is passionate about raising a positive profile of social care, highlighting good news stories and examples of outstanding practice that we never hear about in the main stream press.

“I am in because… I am passionate about raising the status of frontline care professionals who are the back bone of our communities. I want to ensure they are valued by society and receive the status and recognition they truly deserve.”

Amanda Nurse

Founder Director, Carterwood

Amanda is one of the founding directors of Carterwood and has nearly 30 years’ experience in the social care sector.

Representing clients within both the not-for-profit and private sectors, she has provided extensive disposal and strategic advice. More recently, Amanda has advised a range of private equity funds, financial institutions, and corporates, with a focus on the development of elderly care homes.

Carterwood is a multi-award-winning consultancy dedicated to social care. Its team of specialists provide independent, expert analysis that helps operators, developers, and investors to improve decision-making within the elderly care home and older people’s housing sectors.

As well as market-leading advisory services, Carterwood also provides a digital platform for assessing care markets, called Carterwood Analytics. This powerful software gives operators, developers, and investors instant access to high-level market data for over 1.6 million postcodes across Great Britain.

“I am in because… thousands of amazing things happen in a care setting every single day. Those stories deserve to be shouted from the rooftops.”

Neil Eastwood

Founder and CEO, Care Friends

Neil Eastwood is a UK-based international speaker on care worker recruitment and retention and author of ‘Saving Social Care’.

He is founder and CEO of Care Friends, an employee referral app for care staff launched in partnership with Skills for Care. Neil has spent many years studying the best workforce practices of social care organisations around the world. Previously he was a director at a 10,000-staff care provider.

“I am in because… I believe passionately that social care is the glue that holds society together and those who work in it deserve the fullest recognition.”

Davina Ludlow

Independent consultant

Davina has been involved in the care home sector for over twenty years.

First publishing the A-Z Care Homes Guide from 1997 to its cessation in 2013, the A-Z Care Homes Guide was the only national care home directory in the UK, which covered all registered care homes. This led on to the creation of carehome.co.uk in 2005 which gradually converted the entries in the A-Z Care Home Guide to online publishing. carehome.co.uk currently receives over 17 million visitors per year and has nearly 200,000 care home reviews.

As director of carehome.co.uk, Davina was responsible for the success of both the Guide and the website. She is known throughout the sector, by both care home groups and independently owned care homes, for promoting good care and is a tireless advocate for the industry. As a passionate campaigner within the sector, Davina is a leading advocate for highlighting the laudable work provided by care homes and the dedication of those working within the sector.

In 2009, Davina was approached to become a founder Trustee of the Care Workers Charity, the charity for professional care workers. The CWC is the safety net for the vulnerable care workers who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in a crisis. Davina threw herself into this role with the enthusiasm she brings to every challenge she has been presented with.

Davina was voted Care Personality of the Year in 2013 at the National Care Awards.

She is a powerful voice for the sector, having spoken on radio and TV including The One Show and BBC News 24 on a whole range of issues in the care sector such as surveillance cameras in care homes and whether care workers should wear uniforms. She has also been regularly quoted in the nationals in articles on social care.

Davina has stepped down from her role as director of carehome.co.uk and is now acting as a consultant within the care home sector.

“I am in because… it is crucial that we support and celebrate care workers who care for the most vulnerable in our society and yet, sadly, tend to be unsung heroes, particularly during this challenging time when they are on the frontline of the pandemic risking their own health to help others.”

Vernon Baxter

Managing Director, Investor Publishing

Vernon Baxter is Managing Director of Investor Publishing, a media company focused on the UK’s health, education and early years communities. Investor Publishing’s titles include HealthInvestor, EducationInvestor, NutritionInvestor, Nursery Management Today, Caring Times and The Journal of Dementia Care. HealthInvestor and Caring Times provide the health and social care sector with breaking news, analysis and comment and Investor Publishing hosts a number of major events across the year.

“I am in because… I believe social care is fundamentally undervalued and misunderstood by society and I want to help change those perceptions.”

Clare Connell

CEO, Connell Consulting Ltd

Clare is well known within the private equity and corporate finance world for her extensive knowledge of health, social care and education. Clare has worked in strategy consulting for 23 years at the Strategy Practice of Accenture, OC&C Strategy Consultants and Candesic. She was voted Sector Expert by her peers in the 2018, 2019 and 2022 HealthInvestor Power 50 for her knowledge of the sector. She holds a BA (Hons) in History from Durham University.

Connell Consulting won the LaingBuisson Management Consultant Award in 2019 and 2020, as well as the HealthInvestor Consultancy of the Year Award in 2016 and 2021.

“I am in because… I believe the vital contribution that care workers make to society deserves greater recognition and that greater public awareness of the care sector would encourage people with no previous experience of care homes to consider the opportunities offered by a career in care”

Henry Elphick

CEO, Mansfield Advisers LLP

Henry has worked in healthcare for 30 years and is Executive Chair of award-winning healthcare strategy consultants Mansfield Advisors, Non-Executive Chair of Compass Recruitment Solutions, Senior Advisor to Savills Operational Capital Markets, Deputy Chair of the European Healthcare Investor Association, a Non-Executive Director of LaingBuisson and an advisor to the International Longevity Centre think tank.

He started his career as a lawyer with Linklaters in London, New York and Washington, before moving into banking with Rothschild, UBS Investment Bank and Jefferies, where he was Joint Head of European Investment Banking. He was also a Senior Consultant to Macquarie after leaving banking, Chair of care home provider Elizabeth Finn Care and a Trustee of the charity Turn2Us, which fights poverty in the UK.

“I am in because… I care passionately about the care sector and want to see it get the recognition it deserves.”

Saskia Binns

Marketing, Brand and Communications Consultant,
Saskia Binns Consultancy

Saskia began her career within the Care Sector as a Marketing & Brand Development Consultant working across various organisations before joining Majesticare, the luxury care group as Head of Communications in April 2020. In December 2022, she returned to her consultancy remaining with Majesticare and other clients within the sector.

Saskia has enjoyed a long career in marketing across the hospitality and fitness sectors before being enveloped by the incredible passion and unparalleled kindness that stems from the heart of the sector. This alignment of values drives her to support profile-raising projects such as the Care Society, Care Sector Fundraising Ball and even to hike Snowdon overnight for The Care Workers Charity!

“I am in because… Championing Social Care is a fabulous initiative to showcase the passion and unwavering dedication of the truly amazing people who work within social care. I remain in awe of the strength, the sparkle and the smiles that they show every day and it’s a true honour to support shining a light on all our social care heroes.”

Mandip Bhogal

Associate – Healthcare, Knight Frank

Mandip is an Associate working in Knight Frank’s Healthcare team, spearheading their consultancy offering.

In 2013, Mandip became a member of the Senior Management Team of a UK luxury care home developer and operator where he advised on the due diligence of sites, sourcing development land, conducting financial appraisals of sites and analysing the performance of operational care homes.

Since joining Knight Frank in 2017, Mandip has used his strategic and development expertise within the care home sector to provide consultancy services to healthcare investors, developers and operators. Mandip also sits on a commercial board within Knight Frank where initiatives are created and strategy is formulated to support the people of the firm.

“I am in because… this fantastic initiative promotes the great work that is done within the social care sector.”

Quality in Care Delivery, Evidence and Compliance Digital care planning helps care workers escape the paperwork burden and focus on resident needs. With Sekoia, staff have access to all relevant information at point of care. The result is attentive care and support with fewer errors.

Majesticare is one of the UK’s leading, boutique care providers. With an ever-growing portfolio of luxury care homes across Worcestershire, the Homes Counties, Wiltshire and Somerset, they have been specialising in luxury respite, residential, nursing & dementia care for over 20 years.

Established in 2019, the Hallmark Care Homes Foundation is an independent grant-making corporate foundation registered with the Charity Commission. Funded and founded by Hallmark Care Homes Ltd, which has a proud history of supporting charitable causes, the Hallmark Care Homes Foundation aims to deliver a long-term legacy to the charity sector in ways which the company alone would not be capable of achieving.

Established in 2017, the CareTech Foundation is the leading corporate foundation in the social care sector. Founded and funded by leading specialist care provider CareTech plc, the Foundation is an independent grant-making charity that supports and champions the social care sector, care workers and those living in care.

Haroon Sheikh

Chief Executive Officer, CareTech plc

Haroon Sheikh is Chief Executive Officer of Caretech plc. Haroon, a London University graduate, is one of the UK’s leading entrepreneurs, philanthropists and community figureheads and one of the founders of CareTech plc. Haroon brings commercial acumen, related industry experience and property knowledge which has been essential in the growth of the business.

As Chief Executive Officer, Haroon is actively involved in the day-to-day running of the business and over time has been instrumental in nurturing and supporting the senior management team, bringing together disciplines in care, commerce and property. He has a deep commitment and passion to delivering high-quality care and support to people with a learning disability.

In 2008, Haroon and his brother Farouq were winners of the highly valued Coutts Family Business Prize and widely applauded for the quality and social integrity of the company they created.

Haroon is Patron and Enterprise Fellow of the Prince’s Trust and is also Vice Chair of the UK Advisory Council of the British Asian Trust under the patronage of HRH The Prince of Wales.

“I am in because… we need to reach out to those who work in the sector and try to do more for them.”

Farouq Sheikh OBE

Executive Chairman, CareTech plc

Farouq Sheikh is Executive Chairman of CareTech plc. Farouq has been a key architect in CareTech’s growth, having been co-founder of the Group and involved in the vision and strategy from the outset in 1993. With a background in law and a good understanding of finance and commerce, Farouq has been instrumental in securing debt and equity funding for the Group as well as leading the management team in winning a number of long-term contracts from local and health authorities.

Farouq has been presented with a number of Entrepreneur of the Year awards by prestigious organisations including Laing and Buisson, Coutts Bank and Ernst & Young. He also presents widely at healthcare conferences, raising awareness of the learning disability sector.

As Patron and Enterprise Fellow of the prestigious Prince’s Trust and as a member of the Mosaic National Advisory Board, Farouq supports young people by passing on his experience and expertise to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Farouq was awarded an OBE for his services to specialist social care in The Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2020.

“I am in because… we forget the good work that happens on a daily basis with so many people that commit their lives to supporting people and helping others.”

Caroline Roberts

Chief Executive Officer, Aria Care

With over 35 years’ experience in the health and social care sector, Caroline brings a unique set of qualities and skills to the table. Her unwavering belief that outstanding quality and exceptional people are the backbone of the sector. Having successfully launched Aria Care in December 2022, she leads and inspires all those that work with her. A prominent and respected leader, she continues her passion to recognise, promote and champion all those that contribute to the sector.

Accepting the role as Chair for the Care Sector Ball, Caroline stated it was a privilege and honour to represent the committee and will continue to raise the profile of the sector and celebrate this amazing cause.

Alex Ramamurthy

Head of Health and Social Care, Wagestream

Alex is Head of Health and Social Care at Wagestream, the UK’s leading financial wellbeing app available to over 3 million frontline workers through employers such as Bupa, HC-One, Care UK, ASDA, Co-op and many more. Alex has extensive experience in social care, formally the Chairman of Care Innovation Hub and CEO at The Care Workers Charity, a key benefactor of Championing Social Care. Most recently Alex launched a social impact startup tackling loneliness in later life that was acquired by Rest Less Group in 2023. Alex is intent on solving problems in the ageing and social care space that have a huge impact on society.

“I am in because… the Social Care Sector is close to my heart and undervalued by society. Every day, there are a multitude of examples of incredible people going the extra mile to support our society’s most vulnerable. These people are our everyday heroes and Championing Social Care will shine a light on them.”

Simon Parker

Founding Partner, Ca re Leaders Network

Hi! My name’s Simon Parker. I am deeply passionate about the social care sector and I am involved in various different ways. Alongside being an Ambassador of Championing Social Care, I am also the Founding Partner of Ca re Leaders Network, which is a management consultancy for the care home sector, the host of The Care Home Show, which is the UK’s largest video podcast for the care home sector and also co-founder of Let’s Create, which is a marketing agency focused on transforming the way that people see care homes.

“I am in because… I want to contribute towards shaping the future of social care and believe very strongly that an important part of doing so is to shine a light on its incredible value.”

Morten Mathiesen

CMO, Sekoia

As one of the founders of Sekoia, Morten has spent enough days and nights in a care home to understand and appreciate the work being done here. Morten and the rest of Sekoia regard themselves as “Q to 007”. By providing care staff with a bulletproof tech kit, they target their vision of enabling care.

“I am in because… of the importance. With what we do, there is simply no way we could pass on such an opportunity to support a more visible and valued social care sector. It’s why we were founded in the first place.”

Rebecca Leask

Partner and Head of Health and Social Care, Harrison Clark Rickerbys

Rebecca is a Partner within the corporate department and the head of the Health and Social Care team at Harrison Clark Rickerbys (HCR). In addition to her work as a solicitor, she is also a qualified barrister and Notary Public Rebecca’s focus is assisting businesses to achieve their potential, whether through buying, selling or restructuring. She is committed to delivering the best possible service to her clients and gives commercial and pragmatic advice.

Rebeccas’s expertise is regularly called upon to speak at various Health and Social Care conferences and seminars and contributing to sector press articles. In addition, she sits on the board of the West Midlands Care Association.

“I am in because… I recognise that social care providers often go above and beyond for the people they look after, so I think it’s only right that we do the same for you.”

Professor Martin Green OBE

Chief Executive, Care England

Martin Green has had an extensive career in NGO development, both in the UK and internationally, and is Chief Executive of Care England, the largest representative body for independent social care services in the UK. He is Vice President of The Care Workers Charity, a Champion of The National Aids Trust and a Commissioner of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. In 2013 he was appointed Visiting Professor of Social Care to Buckinghamshire New University. In 2012, in his role as Department of Health Independent Sector Dementia Champion, he led the development of the Dementia Care and Support Compact for The Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia.

“I am in because… social care transforms lives and sustains communities.”

Martin Gould

Head of Brokerage – Care, Christie & Co

Martin is Christie & Co’s Head of Brokerage for the Care sector. Having joined the company in 2002, he has been specialising solely in the healthcare sector since 2006. Specialisms include advising clients on the sale of high value portfolio’s and individual assets, specialist care businesses, multi-site disposal projects and insolvency/distressed situations. He works across both the elderly and specialist care arenas.

“I am in because… of a simple reason – this sector is an amazing place to be. By helping to raise awareness of the good work it does, every day, I’d like to think we can make a difference.”

Adam Hutchison

Managing Director, Belmont Healthcare Group

Adam Hutchison, Founder and CEO of Belmont Healthcare Group, entered the social care sector in 2013 initially managing 53 care home beds. This soon expanded, he now operates a portfolio of over 250 beds across four High Needs Dementia & Respite Care homes in the South East, one of which specialises in offering Nursing care. Growing the business further in 2021 launching new services in the form of Home Care provision within the Midlands & Worcester areas. Further focusing on the Belmont strategy to develop a multi faceted healthcare group. Future growth includes Mental Health and General Practice provision across England. Adam is an active member of the Trade Association community, as Vice Chair of the Kent Integrated Care Alliance (KiCA), board member of the Care Association Alliance (CAA) Ambassador for The Care Worker’s Charity & Championing Social Care initiatives, he actively champions the care sector by raising strategic issues for local providers on a national scale.

“I am in because… this sector brings so much joy to those it supports and we need to celebrate this far and wide for all to see.”

Karolina Gerlich

Executive Director, The Care Workers Charity

Karolina has been a care worker for twelve years alongside being an experienced Director in several capacities within the non-profit sector. She is passionate about social care and social justice and never misses a chance to advocate for care workers. Another passion of hers is women’s rights and she is currently also an Advisor for the Women’s Equality Party. Karolina has been invited to participate in many media experiences as a voice for care workers to raise awareness of their under-valued hard work. However, through all this, her love for caring for those in need has never wavered and she continues to work as a care worker in addition to her other roles.

“I am in because… the determination, commitment and sacrifice of the care workforce deserves recognition.”

Carolyn Baker-Mellor

Head of Care, Towergate Insurance Brokers

Carolyn is a respected industry leader with over 35 years’ experience within the care insurance sector. She works across a wide spectrum of insurance product and policy development, delivery and optimisation for care industry clients, including managing global corporate accounts, working closely with trade associations, and helping clients in protecting their businesses and personal assets. She has strong relationships with many of the top care providers and understands the pressures care providers face and the fantastic work that goes on in the industry.

“I am in because… I feel passionately that by working together we can raise the profile of social care and those people who work tirelessly often with little recognition for the incredible job they do.”

Vishal Shah

Managing Director, Banyan Home Care Services

Vishal Shah is Founder and Managing Director of Banyan Home Care Services, Trustee and Treasurer of Care England, the leading representative body for independent care services in England, and Board Director of LogMyCare, an award-winning digital care planning platform. Vishal also chairs the Care England Young Care Leaders Group and is a founding member of the Digital Special Interest Group.

Vishal has over 15 years’ experience working at a senior level in an operational and advisory capacity across health and social care, including with national care providers Westminster Healthcare and Barchester Healthcare. Vishal has a particular interest in digital and technological innovation to support living longer, healthier, happier lives.

Vishal has had an extensive career in Corporate Finance and Investment previously with PriceWaterhouseCoopers and Williams De Broe.

“I am in because… it is so important to recognise, celebrate and promote the incredible dedication, passion and specialist expertise of the social care sector and frontline teams that work tirelessly to provide essential support and care to improve the health and wellbeing of the most vulnerable in our communities.”

Anita Goyal MBE

Trustee, Hallmark Care Homes Foundation

Anita Goyal is the CEO and trustee of The Hemraj Goyal Foundation and the Hallmark Care Homes Foundation. She is Patron of Binti International and the Care Workers Charity as well as an Ambassador of the Alzheimer’s Society. She is an award-winning philanthropist, community champion and author of Voices from Punjab and Voices from Gujarat. Anita completed a BSc in Biomedical Materials Science & Engineering at Queen Mary College, London. Anita’s passion for teaching led her to become a teacher and Assistant Headteacher. Anita has completed her MA in Special and Inclusive Education at the Institute of Education and UCL and is pioneering personal development workshops in schools in the UK. She is the Co-founder of Ultimate You where she designs and speaks about educational seminars on leadership, business, life and relationships. She is passionate about making a difference and believes in doing everything with passion and purpose.

“I am in because… I want to help raise the profile of the care sector and support fundraising for our charity partners.”

Mitesh Dhanak

Founder and Chairman, Precious Homes

As the founder of Precious Homes, Mitesh has been involved in the care sector for over 25 years. Originally a graduate trainee in the City with a keen interest in property development, Mitesh turned his attention to the social care sector, developing bespoke properties tailored to the needs of the individual. Today, Precious Homes operates 40 residential and supported living services around the UK, providing high quality, person-centred support for individuals with autism and complex needs.

“I am in because… social care in the UK plays a vital role in our society. It takes skill, knowledge and a special kind of person to fulfil the demands of the role and is a job that deserves to be applauded, recognised and celebrated. We need to put social care in the spotlight to create dialogue and positive change for those who rely on the care sector for support.”

Angela Boxall

Chief Executive Officer, Majesticare Care Homes

Angela is well known for bringing the smiles to the Social Care Sector but is universally respected as being one of the most forward thinking and innovative leaders in the sector at the moment. Angela has developed and grown through the ranks in Social Care now being the CEO of Majesticare, a leading luxury care home group well know for its people, its environment, and its use of technology. This year Angela was also appointed Chair of Care England, where she is continuing to make a positive impact within the Social Care Sector.

Ben Allen

Chief Executive, Oomph Wellness

Ben is Chief Executive of Oomph! Wellness. Having founded Oomph! In 2011 and acted as Chairman of The Care Workers Charity, Ben has extensive knowledge of the care sector and overcoming the complexities associated with bringing new products and services to market. Ben has advised and invested in a number of growing businesses through the Small Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS). Ben’s awards include “One to Watch” in the Health Investor Awards; Alumni Laureate Award, University of Hull; Deloitte Social Innovation Pioneer; New Radical, NESTA; Innovator of the Year, Spears; and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Shell LiveWire.

Jonathan Freeman MBE

Vice-Chair

CEO, CareTech Foundation

Jonathan is CEO of the CareTech Foundation, the leading corporate foundation in the social care sector. Founded and funded by leading specialist care provider CareTech plc, the Foundation is an independent grant-making charity that supports and champions the social care sector, care workers and those living in care.

Jonathan is also Managing Director of Earlsbrook Consulting Limited, providing strategic advisory service to charities, businesses and philanthropists. Jonathan was previously Managing Director of Mosaic, HRH The Prince of Wales’s mentoring charitable initiative, and before that a member of the Senior Civil Service.

Jonathan serves as a Governor (trustee) of The Legal Education Foundation and Trustee of the Field Lane Foundation. He is a member of the Institute of Health Management’s Advisory Board and Patchwork Foundation’s Strategy Council.

Jonathan was recognised with an MBE for charitable services in Her Majesty The Queen’s New Year’s Honours List 2021.

“I am in because… the care sector looks after the most vulnerable members of our society and deserves to be celebrated and cherished.”

Avnish Goyal

Chair

Chairman, Hallmark Care Homes

Avnish Goyal qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Coopers & Lybrand in 1991 after graduating from Newcastle University with an Honours degree in Accounting and Finance. He is the Chair of industry-leading care provider Hallmark Care Homes that he founded with his brothers in 1997. Over the last 23 years, the company has won numerous awards for delivering outstanding care as well as national awards for building some of the best care homes in the country.

In 2010, Avnish set up the Hemraj Goyal Foundation in memory of his late father, supporting charities on issues such as trafficking, menstrual dignity, empowerment of women and education of children from disadvantaged backgrounds both in the UK and abroad.

Avnish is proud to be the Chair of Care England, the largest trade association for the care sector, and the founding Trustee and now Patron of The Care Workers’ Charity as well as an Ambassador of the Alzheimer’s Society. Avnish founded the Care Sector Fundraising Ball, which has so far raised £350,000.00 for charities related to social care.

“I am in because… social care is such an important part of the fabric of society, supporting hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people, it employs dedicated and passionate teams and the great work that they do needs shouting about.”

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